If a picture paints a thousand words a good model must be worth a million.
Necessity is the mother of invention; look around - what do we need?
Proudly sponsored by the Australian Institute of Energy |
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Click here to download a PDF copy of the rules
Click here to download a Risk Assessment Form for Models & Inventions (or here for a fillable PDF version)
Click here to download a copy of the Models & Inventions project checklist.
Click here to download a copy of the judging rubric.
A successful SASTA Oliphant Science Awards Models & Inventions entry:
- HAS A STRONG SCIENCE MESSAGE AND ACCURATE SCIENCE CONTENT.
- Will be interactive allowing the viewer to manipulate it in some way.
- Will communicate ideas clearly.
- Will show creativity and originality.
- Will show skill in construction and design.
Rules for Models & Inventions:
- A group of up to 3 students can complete a Models & Inventions entry. The highest year level in the group will determine the year category of the entry.
Key Dates
Monday 27 July - Sunday 2 August 2026 - report and risk assessment can be submitted online
Wednesday 2 August 2026 - project delivered onsite
- The Risk Assessment for Models & Inventions form must be completed and signed by a teacher before you start your entry. Download the Risk Assessment form here.
- The ideas demonstrated in the model or invention must be your own work.
- Your model or invention must be no larger than 75cm in height x 75cm in width x 75cm in length.
- Your model or invention must not weigh more than 8 kg.
- Your model or invention cannot be built from a kit without additional original input.
- Your model or invention must not include live animals or plants.
- Your model or invention must not require the use of mains power. Battery-powered models are permitted; however, organisers will not provide, replace, or recharge batteries, nor will access be allowed for the entrant to replace batteries once delivered.
- Although the use of liquids is not encouraged, if using liquids for hydraulics or to replicate venom (for example), the liquid must be contained in a container which is clearly labelled with what kind of liquid is in the container in case of leaks.
- Your model or invention must not include any items of value – SASTA cannot accept responsibility for any loss or theft of goods.
- All parts must be clearly labelled with your ID Number (see Identification Label), because parts may become separated during judging or transport.
- Your model or invention will be displayed at Science Alive!, where it will be viewed and handled by the public. While every effort will be made to look after projects, some minor damage may occur.
- A short written report must include:
- The completed and signed Risk Assessment for Models & Inventions form.
- The scientific principle demonstrated by your model or used in your invention.
- How the entry was made, including any adult help needed in its construction.
- Any problems that occurred and how you overcame the problems.
- How to operate your model or invention.
- Acknowledgement of any AI tools used in preparing your entry, in line with the Oliphant Science Awards AI Policy.
- Year R – 2: less than 100 words;
- Year 3 – 4 and 5 – 6: approximately 250 words;
- Year 7 – 8, 9 – 10, 11 – 12: do not exceed 500 words.
If there is any special reason for someone other than the entrants to edit or type the report this must be acknowledged in the report. You must also acknowledge any other assistance that you receive (see Conditions of Entry).
In presenting your Models & Inventions entry:
- NEW FOR 2026: An electronic copy of your report and risk assessment MUST BE EITHER uploaded to the Oliphant Science Awards website between 27 July and 2 August 2026 OR attached when delivering your project. Please include a photo of your model in your report. Online submission Details can be found here.
- If the risk assessment and report are not submitted at all, your project will not be considered for judging.
- You must attach your Identification Details as sent to you from your School Coordinator (ID Label or electronic cover sheet). DO NOT PUT YOUR LABEL ON THE BOTTOM OF YOUR PROJECT.
- Students are asked to consider recording a short video of their project to support their submission. This could be uploaded as an unlisted video on Youtube and shared via URL or QR code on your report!
- Special consideration for country schools: Because of the difficulty and possible damage to models and inventions, students may send in a video of their entry working instead of their actual entry. Details for online submission can be found here.
Judging the Models & Inventions Category
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Regan's inspiring journey through OSA
video by Regan Nelson Regan was first encouraged to enter the Oliphant Science Awards by his Reception teacher in 2011. He has entered a project every year since with a number of winning... more...
Phoebe's Top Tips for Making a Models & Inventions Project!
Registered to make a Models & Inventions Project in this year's Oliphant Science Awards? Whether you are new at Model and Invention making or simply looking for support or ideas on how you... more...
Oliphant Science Awards 2019 Trophy Winning Project Video
The 2019 Oliphant Science Awards Trophy went to Ms. Phoebe Wood from Upper Sturt Primary School for her incredible Model & Invention of Anchiornis huxleyi. So SASTA has asked her to make a... more...
Video Entry Hints & Tips Video
Have you considered adding video content to your Oliphant Science Awards Submission? While videos are a popular project choice for the Multimedia category, short videos can also be a great way to record... more...