John Ralph Essay Competition

Submission details

• From 2022, entries are invited in two categories: Scholarly and Opinion (see details below).
• Submissions should be sent as a Word document to: info@farminstitute.org.au
• Entry dates have been extended to midnight on Tuesday, 20 September 2022.

Essays should be between 1800–4500 words in length and can argue for or against the above proposition. In either case, the essay must contain factual information in support of the argument being advanced and must be properly referenced. Where appropriate, the essays should also discuss proposed policy changes that the author believes could address the issues raised.

Entries in both categories should aim to include:

• a thesis statement (answer to the question) and an argument
• development of the thesis via a set of closely related points by reasoning and evidence
• relevant examples, supporting evidence and information from credible sources
• a strong conclusion which convinces the reader of the thesis value

Scholarly category

Entries in this category are to be written in an academic essay style, supported by references. An academic essay aims to persuade readers of an idea based on evidence, by answering a question or addressing a task. Scholarly entries should also include a 150-200 word abstract summarising the paper. Entries in this category are expected to be at the longer end of the word count.

Opinion category

Entries in this category can be written in a less formal style. While references are not required for this category, inclusion of evidence supporting the stated opinion is encouraged. An opinion essay aims to persuade readers of an intellectual position based on strong arguments and evidence. Entries in this category are expected to be at the shorter end of the word count.

Prizes

• Scholarly category: $3000
• Opinion category: $1000

Winners in each category also receive one year’s Institute membership (valued at $220), and complimentary attendance at the Australian Agriculture Roundtable. Winning essays are published in the summer edition of Farm Policy Journal, along with selected shortlisted submissions.

Judging criteria

Entries will be judged on the following five criteria:

• Originality: entries should go beyond repeating commonly held beliefs, and demonstrate a high level of critical thinking by carefully and objectively examining the question posed by the topic.
• Comprehensiveness: entries should canvass the full extent of the issue, and carefully consider the positives and negatives arising from any proposed solution.
• Practicality: any proposals must find a balance between being bold and practical – i.e., there should be a reasonable chance that proposals could be adopted.
• Clarity: entries should be written in clear, jargon-free language to be easily read and understood.
• Credibility: entries should be defensible, i.e. backed by evidence from reputable sources or supported by logical, well-argued reasons.