Mr McIlroy’s proposal stood out to the judges for its nuanced analysis of Europe's response to shifting geopolitical dynamics. Mr McIlroy focused on the evolving EU-Australia relationship and the EU’s strategic approach to hybrid threats, the implementation and impact of its sanctions posed on Russia and Europe’s broader strategic efforts to counter the growing Russian threat.

The EU’s press teams in Canberra and Brussels, in cooperation with Team Europe embassies in Australia, will support Mr McIlroy in preparing a 10-day working visit to Europe. The itinerary will include Brussels and three EU Member States.

The European Union Delegation to Australia, the National Press Club of Australia and Qantas would like to thank all other applicants for the strong calibre of their submissions.

About the award

Awarded annually since 1992, the EU-Qantas Journalist Award is open to Australian journalists with over three years of experience in print or electronic media. The purpose of the award is to bring European stories relevant to Australian audiences and strengthen mutual understanding.

Qantas, a founding partner, provides a business class fare for the travelling journalist and the National Press Club of Australia plays a crucial role in the evaluation of applications.