D&AD has revealed the jury for the 2026 Awards, featuring leading creatives from more than 40 countries.
This year, 15 creatives from Australia will join the international jury, reflecting the country’s continued influence across design, craft and creative innovation.
They are Melissa Baillache, Toni Higginbotham, Laura Aldington, Tara McKenty, Pete Baker, Jack Hutchings, Micah Walker, Jim Parry, Genevieve Triquet, Gavin Chimes, Jessie French, Damien Drew, Mandie van der Merwe, Barbara Humphries and Cat Wall.
For 2026, independent studios now make up around half of the jury, alongside an increased number of brand-side representatives, including creatives from Lego, Unilever and adidas.
D&AD COO Donal Keenan said the global non-profit exists to uphold creative standards for the industry.
“The Awards are judged by creatives, for creatives and this year’s jury reflects the reality of how great work is made today, while maintaining the rigour and integrity that have defined D&AD for more than six decades,” he said.
Live judging for the Awards will take place from May 17-20, with winners announced on the final day. The D&AD Festival will run across the Southbank on May 19-20.
This year, D&AD will also offer a number of free festival tickets to support creatives who have recently been made redundant, reinforcing its commitment to the creative community during a challenging period for the industry.
The Black Pencil, D&AD’s highest honour, along with the President’s Award, individual rankings and Company of the Year, will be announced and celebrated separately in September.
D&AD president Lisa Smith said creativity thrives when it’s actively supported, challenged and put into practice.
“This year’s jury brings together people who are deeply involved in making great work happen and who understand the responsibility that comes with recognising and championing creative excellence,” she said.
Main Image: D&AD Pencils