The Victorian government has announced the winners and finalists of the 2025 Victorian School Design Awards, recognizing outstanding architectural achievements in educational facilities across the state. This prestigious awards program celebrates world-class learning environments and highlights the state's commitment to providing exceptional educational infrastructure for students of all ages.

The awards program was open to architects and principal designers who worked on Victorian government school projects, government-funded kindergartens, or early learning facilities that were completed between June 2023 and June 2025. According to a government media release, this year's competition received a record number of entries across three main categories: schools, early childhood facilities, and First Nations design projects, demonstrating the growing emphasis on innovative educational architecture.

Six categories recognized excellence in different aspects of school design and construction budgets. JFK Design won the Best New Kindergarten or Early Learning Facility award for their work on St Kilda and Balaclava Kindergarten. WHDA received recognition in the Best School Project under $5 million category for their design of Swan Hill Specialist School. BSPN Architecture took home the Best School Project between $5 million and $15 million award for Moonee Ponds West Primary School.

In the highest budget category, Kerstin Thompson Architects won the Best School Project above $15 million for their exceptional work on Northcote High School. ARM Architecture was honored with the Best Project in First Nations Design for the Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence. Additionally, Perkins Architects received the prestigious Minister's Award for their innovative design of Footscray City Primary School.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll congratulated all winners and finalists, describing them as "an integral part of [the state's] nation-leading education construction boom." His comments highlighted the significant investment Victoria has made in educational infrastructure and the important role that architectural excellence plays in supporting student learning outcomes.

Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn emphasized the impact these designs will have on young learners, stating, "These outstanding designs show how we're creating inspiring spaces where every Victorian child can thrive from the very start." Her remarks underscore the government's focus on creating environments that support early childhood development and educational success from the earliest stages of learning.

The complete list of winners and finalists is available online for public viewing, allowing the community to explore the innovative designs that are shaping Victoria's educational landscape. These award-winning projects represent the cutting edge of educational architecture and demonstrate how thoughtful design can enhance the learning experience for students across the state.