Queensland has recognised the next generation of STEM leaders with the crowning of the winners of the 2025 Premier’s Coding Challenge.
The Challenge encourages students to develop games, apps or websites that address real world issues to help build critical skills and prepare them for future careers in STEM fields.
Twenty-four students received an award across 16 categories, with this year also marking the highest number of school entries and the highest participation of girls, compared to previous years.
Premier David Crisafulli said the Premier’s Coding Challenge encouraged young people to develop their digital skills.
“Congratulations to all the students who participated and won an award today,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Young Queenslanders are bright and talented, and this program recognises their extraordinary efforts.
“This program gives Queensland a head start on preparing for the future jobs market and helps to address future challenges.”
More than 440 students from 136 state and non-state schools participated in this year’s challenge by creating a game, app or website relating to the 2025 theme, #digitalinnovationqld.
All entries were assessed by a judging panel of industry experts, with winners sharing in $15,000 worth of prizes during a ceremony and STEM facilities tour at Griffith University.
Arundel State School Year 6 students, Adam and Noah (pictured) took out the Year 5 & 6 Open Platform category with their incredible game ‘Energy Seals’.
The judges praised their project as “a technically outstanding and thought provoking” submission. After months of dedicated work, Adam and Noah attended the official awards ceremony in Brisbane today and represented Arundel State School with pride and honour, the school said in a social media post.
“This is a first ever achievement for our school and highlights the strength of our STEM Excellence program at Arundel. We’re so proud of their exceptional work. Well done, Adam and Noah. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for you both.”
MacGregor State School student Year 4 student, Lua (pictured, above) was announced as the winner of the 2025 Premier’s Coding Challenge in the Year 3 & 4 category.
Minister for Education, John-Paul Langbroek said students from around the state participated in the challenge.
“The Crisafulli Government is proud to deliver awards programs like the Premier’s Coding Challenge to celebrate these skilled students,” Minister Langbroek said.
“Nearly half of the participating schools were from regional Queensland, which is an outstanding result.
“Students work on their projects for most of the year – from February to September – and it demonstrates their commitment to developing coding skills.
“Thank you also to all the STEM teachers supporting students’ growth in this increasingly important field of study.”
The Challenge is part of the Crisafulli Government’s record $21.9 billion Education Budget, which is building 15 new schools, delivering more teachers and teacher aides, and creating safer classrooms to deliver a world-class education to students.
