The outstanding academic achievements of South Australia's Year 12 students are recognised every year at the Governor’s Commendations and Merit Ceremony. The event has been held annually since 1989 and is hosted by the Governor of South Australia at Government House. 

Learn about the types of commendations and awards presented at the event.

Whilst for the last few years, this event has been held across two days with the Governor’s Commendations and multiple merits awarded at the final session, 2026 will see us return to a one-day format. 

To ensure that we are delivering a more streamlined event, minimising risks associated with extreme weather, and improving accessibility and inclusivity at the event, the 2026 Governor’s Commendations and Merit Ceremony will take place on one day, commencing at 9:00 am and concluding at 12:30 pm. The event will begin with the Governor’s Commendation and multiple merit presentations, followed by the presentation of single merits concurrently in separate marquees. 

Date: 11 February 2026 
Venue: Government House grounds, North Terrace, Adelaide 

Attendance is by invitation only. Merit recipients will receive a formal invitation via email in early January 2026, with details of their specific session. 

Please direct any enquiries to the askSACE team via email askSACE@sa.gov.au or phone 1300 322 920.