Premier's Science Awards 2025: Government Science Project of the Year Winners

The Government Science Project of the Year category recognises government science projects that have made outstanding contributions in various fields of STEM.

Now in its 24th year, the Premier's Science Awards recognises and celebrates the outstanding scientific research and engagement taking place in Western Australia.
 

Genetic Assessment for Conservation of Rare and Threatened Fauna

Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions

The Fauna Genetics project at DBCA has played a pivotal role in advancing conservation science in Western Australia since 2012, providing essential data to support the conservation of threatened species through cutting-edge genetic analyses aimed at ensuring their long-term genetic health and resilience.

The project has pioneered novel genetic technologies for non-invasive wildlife monitoring in the State. This breakthrough has reduced the need for live animal capture, minimising stress and disruption to sensitive species. Notably, the work has delivered the first quantitative population estimates for several elusive, hard-to-monitor species, transforming how these populations are understood and managed.

Geochemically fingerprinting Western Australia’s next mineral discoveries

Geological Survey of Western Australia – Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration

The Geological Survey of Western Australia’s Chemical Fingerprinting project has revolutionised the understanding of the evolution and mineral potential of Western Australia’s geology. Over the past 8 years it has created new exploration paradigms for many of Western Australia’s key critical, strategic and precious minerals, and it has directly influenced the discovery of the 11-million-ounce Hemi gold deposit in the Pilbara. The project has been celebrated by the exploration industry and has influenced land tenure decisions. Research outcomes have been published in several of the World’s highest ranking scientific journals (including Nature) attracting international recognition and collaboration.