Applications Open for 2026 EU-Qantas Journalist Awards

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Award Offers European Working Visit

The 2026 EU-Qantas Journalist Awards are now accepting applications, providing a unique opportunity for one talented journalist to embark on a ten-day working visit to Europe. This prestigious award was announced on 20th April 2026 and continues a tradition of celebrating exceptional journalism in Australia since its inception in 1992.

Eligible applicants must be journalists based in Australia with a minimum of three years’ experience in the media industry. The award includes business class flights and expenses generously covered by Qantas, allowing the recipient to explore and report on European themes that hold significance for Australian audiences.

Applicants are required to submit a detailed proposal by 15th May 2026. This proposal should outline how the journalist plans to utilise the trip to produce engaging and relevant content for their audience. Three examples of recent work and a written recommendation from their current employer must accompany the proposal.

Eligibility and How to Apply

Travel must occur between June and October 2026, with tickets finalised by the end of June. The journalist must plan a programme that delves into European themes, ensuring these stories resonate with Australian readers or viewers. The project proposal should focus on current European-Australian themes and can include multimedia elements.

Submissions are to be made through the National Press Club of Australia, and the EU Delegation will play an active role in organizing interviews and crafting a comprehensive itinerary with EU experts throughout the visit. The EU has partnered with Qantas and the National Press Club of Australia to deliver this esteemed award.

Selection criteria focus on the proposal’s theme, originality, and innovation. Multimedia packages are encouraged, and journalists should detail the platforms they intend to use for publishing or broadcasting their work, including any plans for social media engagement.

Since the awards began, they have fostered stronger connections between Europe and the Australian media landscape. The collaboration between the EU, Qantas, and the National Press Club of Australia highlights the importance of international journalism. The award invites the winning journalist to fly business class to the EU and up to three Member States for ten days.

The EU Delegation will assist in developing a programme and interviews with EU experts. Travel and expenses will be covered by Qantas, ensuring a comprehensive and immersive experience for the journalist.

For more information regarding the application process or the award itself, interested journalists can contact Victoria Kelly-Clark via email.

Last updated: 20 April 2026, 7:04 pm

Daniel Rolph
Daniel Rolphhttp://melbourne-insider.au/
Daniel Rolph is the editor of Melbourne Insider, covering hospitality, venue openings and events across Melbourne. With over 15 years’ experience in marketing and media, he brings a commercial, newsroom-focused approach to accurate and timely local reporting.
Daniel Rolph
Daniel Rolph is the editor of Melbourne Insider, covering hospitality, venue openings and events across Melbourne. With over 15 years’ experience in marketing and media, he brings a commercial, newsroom-focused approach to accurate and timely local reporting.