About the Awards

CA ANZ, with the endorsement of AFAANZ, presents the 2027 Inspiring Minds Awards. The CA ANZ 2027 Inspiring Minds Awards celebrate excellence and innovation in accounting education across Australia and New Zealand. In 2027, the awards recognise outstanding contributions in two categories: Teaching and Learning Excellence in First-Year Accounting and Developing Work-Ready Accounting Graduates.

Together, these two awards acknowledge individuals and teams who are shaping the future of the profession. Whether through inspiring and engaging students in their first encounter with accounting, or through innovative approaches that help graduates develop the skills, capabilities and professional attributes needed for success in today's workplace, applicants demonstrate a commitment to student success and the long-term strength of the profession.

By recognising both exceptional teaching and impactful educational initiatives, the Inspiring Minds Awards reflect CA ANZ's commitment to developing future-ready accounting professionals. The awards celebrate those who are creating meaningful learning experiences, strengthening pathways into the profession, and helping students become confident, capable and career-ready Difference Makers.

About the Award

The Inspiring Minds Award for Teaching Excellence in First-Year Accounting recognises and celebrates exceptional educators who are shaping the future of the accounting profession from the ground up. It honours individuals and teams at higher education institutions across Australia and New Zealand who bring passion, innovation, and dedication to first-year accounting education.

These educators do more than teach, they spark curiosity, build confidence, and create meaningful learning experiences that leave a lasting impact. Their commitment not only enhances student engagement and success but also strengthens the pipeline of future-ready accounting professionals.

By recognising excellence in teaching and learning, this award reflects CA ANZ’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of accounting professionals and building a profession that is inclusive, future-focused, and appealing to new talent. A strong introduction to accounting can shape how students see the profession and whether they choose to pursue it. These educators play a vital role in opening doors for future Difference Makers, making accounting more accessible, inspiring, and impactful from the very first step.

Award details

Two winners: One from Australia and one from New Zealand, each will receive:

• $5,000 cash prize.
• A certificate of recognition.
• A feature in the Acuity magazine.
• The opportunity to present at the 2026 AFAANZ Conference.

Four remaining shortlisted finalists: Two from Australia and two from New Zealand, each will receive:

• A certificate of recognition.
• The opportunity to present at the 2026 AFAANZ Conference.

All winners and finalists will be invited to present their teaching and learning initiatives at the 2026 AFAANZ Conference in Melbourne, which offers a platform to share insights, connect with peers, and gain national recognition.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be involved in the development and/or delivery of a CA ANZ accredited first-year accounting unit/course/program at an Australian or New Zealand higher education institution.
• Be an individual member of AFAANZ or employed by an institutional member of AFAANZ at the time of application.
• Apply as an individual or team. For team applications, all members must demonstrate a significant contribution to the initiative.

What we’re looking for

Applicants must demonstrate the positive impact of one or more teaching and learning initiatives that enhance the first-year accounting experience. These may include:

• Initiatives that enhance student learning and improving academic performance.
• Strategies that positively influence student engagement and motivation. 
• Efforts that support the creation of high-quality teaching resources, staff professional development and/or increased industry engagement.
• Activities that attract, inspire and support the progression of accounting students.

Impact must be clearly identified and evidenced in the application.

Judging panel

The Inspiring Minds Award will be assessed by an independent panel of respected leaders in accounting education and practice as agreed by CA ANZ and AFAANZ.

Application process

• Applications open 10 September 2025 via the CA ANZ and AFAANZ websites.
• Submit your application form via email to [email protected] by Friday, 6 March, 11:59pm AEST. The deadline has been extended from 28 February to give everyone a fair chance to apply.
• A judging panel will shortlist six finalists, three from Australia and three from New Zealand.
• Two winners (one from each country) will be selected from the shortlist.
• Finalists will present their initiatives at the 2026 AFAANZ Conference, where winners will be announced.

Get ready to share your teaching excellence!