The Bettison and James Award has been established to recognise that many Australians have contributed exemplary and inspiring lifelong work of high achievement and benefit; and that the completion, extension, recording and/or dissemination of such work would have benefits for both the individual concerned and for the wider Australian community.
On an annual basis, it is hoped that the Award, which is provided in recognition of achievement, will provide the beneficiary with further time for activity that may continue to inspire, enrich and be of benefit to the community. Each year, the award will give $50,000 to a recipient who has contributed significantly in their area of expertise – which might include, among others, the arts and humanities, social justice, the environment or the sciences.