The Sydney Peace Prize is given to individuals or organisations that have made outstanding contributions to peace with justice, particularly through work in the field of human rights. The prize is awarded by the Sydney Peace Foundation, an organisation within the University of Sydney. The City of Sydney is a major supporter of the prize, and makes a significant financial contribution as well as in-kind support to foster peace with justice.
The prize is named after Sidney Hook, a philosopher who worked to promote the value of academic freedom and integrity. The National Association of Scholars also offers the Sydney Hook Award, which is presented at the organization’s annual conference to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in the defense of academic freedom and integrity.
Sydney has a deep and rich history. From Elizabethan brickwork to medieval cellars, the city has a lot to offer for visitors and locals alike. It is also known as one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. Whether it’s a visit to the enchanting Cloister Court, a tour of the historic Old Sydney Town, or a stroll through the lush Botanic Gardens, you will not be disappointed.
It is no wonder that Sydney is an international hub of arts and culture. From theatre to film, music to poetry, there is something for everyone. The city’s culture is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and literature. In addition, Sydney is home to some of Australia’s most famous festivals and events.
Sydney is a hub for young creatives. The 2023 Event Cinemas Rising Talent Award is open to emerging NSW-based film creatives, directors and screenwriters who have had no more than five short films to their credit. The winner of the prize will receive $7,500 and will be exhibited at Event Cinemas across NSW.
In 2019, the Sydney UNESCO City of Film award was won by director and screenwriter Chris Godfrey, whose debut feature, The Dancing Girl and Balloon Man, is a gripping tale of a woman living with her husband as they learn to live with ghosts. The winning entry will be published in Overland’s autumn 2024 edition and will receive a cash prize of $5000. Two runners-up will each be awarded $1500.
In honor of the late American labor unionist and journalist, the Hillman Prize recognizes journalists “who pursue investigative reporting and deep storytelling in the public interest.” Past winners have included Jane Mayer for her expose on Dick Cheney; Bill Moyers and Kathleen Hughes for their Journal broadcast on Buying War; and Spike Lee and Sam Pollard for their work documenting police violence against African-American citizens. The prize carries a stipend of $1,000, a bottle of union-made wine and a certificate designed by New Yorker cartoonist Edward Sorel.