The J.G. Crawford Prizes were established in 1973 to recognise Sir John Crawford's outstanding contributions to the University, both as Vice-Chancellor for five years (1968—1973) and as Director of the Research School of Pacific Studies for the preceding seven years (1960—1967). Sir John was also the Chancellor of the University from 1976 to 1984.
Each prize consists of a medal for desk display and a monetary prize of $2000 for the PhD prizes and $1000 for the Master Degree prize. Where possible, the prizes are presented at the University’s Conferring of Awards Ceremonies.
Two prizes are available for award to PhD students who have been approved to the degree during the preceding calendar year, normally one for the natural sciences and one for social sciences/humanities. From time to time a prize for outstanding ability in integrating and applying different fields, approaches and/or knowledge may be awarded. This option became available with effect from 2010.
One prize is also available for Master degree graduates whose program of study has been composed of or included research and the preparation of a thesis.