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

LCI Melbourne graduate Sarah Smith has been named the Australian Graduate of the Year in the Convey – Higher Education category at the Design Institute of Australia’s (DIA) Graduate of the Year Awards, held on 6 August at Stylecraft in Melbourne.
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Sarah first took out the Convey Category Award for Victoria/Tasmania before going on to win the national title. 

A 2024 Bachelor of Design Arts graduate majoring in Graphic & Digital Design, Sarah was also recognised earlier this year at LCI Melbourne’s Graduation Ceremony as Dux of her major and recipient of the Par Excellence Award, the highest academic honour across all disciplines. 

The Convey category celebrates designers who excel in the art of visual storytelling — translating ideas into compelling imagery that informs, persuades, and inspires. Sarah’s award-winning portfolio proved exceptional fluency in composition, typography, and narrative design, showcasing her ability to craft visually impactful work with clarity, creativity, and emotional resonance. 

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