The prestigious Governor of South Australia Commendations recognise students who have met the relevant criteria, achieved excellence in accredited SACE subjects and demonstrated the development of one or more SACE capabilities. 

Consistent with the Merit Policy and Procedures, Governor’s Commendations are awarded in the year a student first completes all requirements for the SACE, regardless of the order in which those requirements are undertaken. This includes students who complete Activating Identities and Futures and/or a verified VET Certificate III in one year and return in a subsequent year to complete their remaining Board accredited SACE subjects. Students are eligible for nomination only in the year their SACE is completed in full. Students who have already completed all SACE requirements in a previous year are not eligible for nomination in a later year. Schools are asked to ensure nominations align with this timing of SACE completion. 

Nominations are now open, closing Friday 13 November 2026 

Successful award recipients have their achievements publicly recognised, and are presented with their commendation by His Excellency, The Governor of South Australia at the SACE Merit Ceremony held annually in February at Government House.

If you have any queries, please contact askSACE on 1300 322 920 or email askSACE@sa.gov.au. 

There are three types of Governor of South Australia Commendations presented to students each year:

• Governor of South Australia Commendation - Excellence Award
• Governor of South Australia Commendation - Aboriginal Student SACE Excellence Award
• Governor of South Australia Commendation - Excellence in Modified SACE Award.

Schools are invited to nominate one student from their school for each commendation type.