Launched in 1996 to honour the Victorian projects and architects that push design forward, the Victorian Premier’s Design Awards is the state government’s highest honour for design – and the International Indigenous Design Charter has taken home the gold for 2018.

In a unique submission and a bold interpretation of what design can be, the winning entrant is a protocol document that offers guidance for respectful representation of Indigenous culture in design practices and education centres across the globe.

Designed and developed by a team led by Deakin University’s Dr. Russell Kennedy in collaboration with representatives from Indigenous Architecture and Design Victoria and Deakin University’s Institute of Koorie Education, the charter was voted unanimously by the jury.

“The Charter supports existing policies and protocols that ensure Indigenous rights, including intellectual property and the right to fair and informed negotiation and remuneration,” says Jury chair Celina Clarke “The positive impact of this document for indigenous people worldwide is evident and deserves recognition at the highest level”

Not the only winner of the night, the charter was awarded alongside the Nightingale 1 sustainable housing development; LinktGo, a GPS smartphone app that shows drivers toll travel in real time and pay with their phones; and a world-first modular hearing resembling jewellery.

“We know how important Victoria’s design industry is to the state’s economy, to the success of local businesses and to our community,” says Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll “The Premier’s Design Awards celebrate excellence in design, and the role design plays in improving our lives. It is just one of the ways we are backing the industry and strengthening Victoria’s design capability.”

IndesignLive congratulates the winners of this prestigious award. Full winners can be seen here.