The competition, in its 23rd year, is Australia’s most prestigious nature photographic contest and is proudly owned and operated by the South Australian Museum. Last year it attracted 1,864 images from 449 photographers in 18 countries.
It was won by Western Australian underwater photographer Ross Gudgeon with his Fractal Forest; a unique image from inside a cauliflower coral shot in Indonesia.
Entries are accepted covering content from across the ANZANG bioregion – Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica and New Guinea.
Photographers are invited to submit entries through 10 categories: Animals in Nature, Botanical, Animal Behaviour, Macro, Landscape, Threatened Species, Monochrome, Our Impact, Portfolio and Junior.
That includes the return of the Botanical and Animal Behaviour categories following feedback during a review of the competition.
Entries close on Thursday 5 February 2026.
The overall winner receives $10,000; category winners receive $1,500; while the Junior takes home $500.
The entry form and other information on the exhibition can be found here.
Comments attributable to South Australian Museum Director Samantha Hamilton
The Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year competition and resulting exhibition is one of the highlights of our year.
The 2025 exhibition, which is still running, is shaping as our most successful yet and it is little wonder, considering the outstanding quality of the images.
We expect more of the same in 2026.
As a Museum, we embrace and protect our natural heritage and believe The Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year competition only helps us achieve that goal.
We have also listened to feedback from photographers and included two returning categories (Animal Behaviour & Botanical), following a comprehensive review of the competition.
So, I urge all photographers out there – young and old, novice and professional – to consider entering.
Comments attributable to Australian Geographic Picture Editor Lyndal Irons
As Australian Geographic looks to its 40th birthday in 2026, we reflect on the vital role photography has played in our storytelling about this country and region.
It remains one of the most powerful ways we share the wonder of our landscapes, wildlife and the people who work to understand and protect them.
The Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year competition embodies this commitment.
Each year we are inspired by the skill and dedication of photographers who help us see the natural world with renewed appreciation.
As we open submissions for the 23rd edition, we look forward to discovering images that will spark curiosity, deepen understanding and encourage a stronger connection to the environment.
