A National Triumph: Sarah Smith Named DIA Australian Graduate of the Year

Throughout her creative journey, Sarah was supported and challenged by a dedicated team of academic mentors. Chief among them was Neil Chenery, her Academic Mentor in Graphic & Digital Design, whose expertise and guidance helped shape her voice as a designer.
Donna Kirkwood, Head of the Art, Design & Communication Faculty at LCI Melbourne, shared:
“Sarah’s national recognition is a proud and powerful moment for our entire LCI Melbourne community. Her work exemplifies the kind of curiosity, courage, and criticality we nurture through our Different by Design approach. This achievement is not only a reflection of Sarah’s talent and dedication, but also of the rich learning environment cultivated by her mentors and peers across the Graphic & Digital Design major.”
Sarah’s double win at GOTYA 2025 affirms LCI Melbourne’s commitment to creative excellence, industry engagement, and fostering emerging voices that shape the future of Australian design.
From all of us at LCI Melbourne, congratulations, Sarah. Your work inspires us, and your future is one we will all be watching with pride.
Discover more about studying Graphic & Digital Design at LCI Melbourne: https://melbourne.lcieducation.com/en/courses-and-units/major-graphic-and-digital-design