The Tall Poppy Campaign was created by the Australian Institute of Policy & Science to recognise and celebrate Australian scientific and intellectual excellence and to encourage younger Australians to follow in the footsteps of our outstanding achievers.

The Tall Poppy Campaign promotes the achievements of Australian scientists through the Young Tall Poppy Program and its related activities, and the award of the Merck Sharp & Dohme Florey Medal.

The Young Tall Poppy Program identifies and acknowledges outstanding young Australian researchers through the prestigious Young Tall Poppy Science Awards which are held each year in different states. Award winners are engaged in an education program to foster a stronger interest in science in schools and the broader community.

Awards have been presented to over 150 Young Tall Poppies in NSW, VIC, SA, QLD and the ACT in such fields as medical research, health care, basic sciences, engineering, information technology, veterinary science and environmental studies.

Through the Young Tall Poppies Reaching Students Program, the award recipients visit schools to talk to students about science, in consultation with departments of education, science teachers' associations, and individual schools.

The Tall Poppy is a metaphor for excellence and endeavour. It symbolises Australia's pride in outstanding achievers in all fields.