Master of Architecture Graduate named top in state with 2026 Architects Medallion

Tuesday, 14 April 2026

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The University of Newcastle has once again affirmed its reputation for producing award‑winning and community‑focused designers, with Master of Architecture alumnus Thomas Jager awarded the prestigious 2026 Architects Medallion.

This marks the third time in five years that a Newcastle graduate has earned the state’s highest honour for a Master of Architecture student - an exceptional achievement that underscores the program’s distinctive, community‑centred approach to architectural education.

Thomas Jager stands in front of a NSW Architects Registration Board Banner, holding his MedallionA project centred on repair, self‑determination and climate responsiveness

Thomas received the 2026 Architects Medallion for his final design thesis Unsung - Apmere. His project is set at Irrkerlantye / White Gate Town Camp on the outskirts of Mparntwe (Alice Springs), where he challenges Western definitions of home that focus on enclosure and possession. Instead, he considers home as a relationship shaped by people, climate and Country.

Across multiple visits to Central Australia, Thomas’ research focuses on understanding the structural impacts of imposed housing systems, the spatial conditions they have created, and the lived experience of communities living on Country. His work does not claim to speak for the community; instead, it reflects on what it means to come as a visitor to another Country, listening, observing, and recognising the limits of his own position. His thesis navigates cultural complexity with clarity and ethical intent, an increasingly important responsibility in contemporary architectural practice.

A studio culture that supports excellence

Head of Discipline Dr Nicholas Foulcher said Thomas’s achievement reflects both his dedication and the distinctive studio culture that shapes learning in the School of Architecture and Built Environment.

“Having first taught Tom in 2020, at the very beginning of his university studies, it has been incredibly rewarding to see the depth, care, and criticality of his work continue to evolve. This award is an exceptional achievement and a powerful reflection of his commitment.”

The University of Newcastle offers the most studio-based Master of Architecture degree in Australia. Students work in collaborative studio environments throughout the year, developing their skills through hands-on projects, peer learning and close guidance from academic staff and industry practitioners. This immersive way of working strengthens design capability and prepares graduates for practice.

Dr Foulcher said this environment is central to the School’s success.

“It reflects the strength of our studios, where students are supported to pursue meaningful, community-engaged architecture with real impact.”

Building a community, for community

Thomas Jager holds his medallion, and stands with Dr Timothy Burke, and two other individuals. They are all smiling, standing on the stage at the award presentation night.Master of Architecture Program Convenor Dr Timothy Burke said the program’s repeated success speaks to the community driven culture that shapes student learning.

"This is a fantastic achievement not just for Tom, but for everyone he worked with along the way, especially his peers. It’s telling that the people that he invited to the awards were his study-mates. It speaks to the community-mindedness that comes out of the studio culture that is so unique at Newcastle."

Thomas was credited by the jury for his thoughtfulness, care, cultural sensitivity and allyship for community-led repair. Read the full jury citation here.

The history of success

Two images side by side. On the left, Chloe stands smiling, holding her medallion. On the right, the gold-coloured medallion with Chloe's name and the year of her win, in addition to some other text.2024 – Chloe Gesler

Recognised for her drought‑responsive project “Underneath the Sand”, Chloe explored how architecture can support First Nations and farming communities facing extreme environmental pressures.

Tualagi is wearing a blue shirt and looking at the camera. Standing in front of a generic / unknown background.2022 – Tualagi Nokise

Awarded unanimously for his project centred on climate resilience in the Pacific, Tualagi proposed a research and training centre supporting community led disaster recovery in Fiji.

The success of Thomas, Chloe and Tualagi reflects the exceptional talent emerging from the University of Newcastle’s Master of Architecture program. Their success points to a future shaped by designers who will make lasting contributions through socially engaged, community‑centred and environmentally responsive architecture.

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