HELPING WRITERS REALISE THEIR
CREATIVE AND PROFESSIONAL DREAMS

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Develop

Tools to help develop your writing skills.
- Competitions and Opportunities
- Publishers and Journals
Program
Program

Workshops and events.
- Autumn Program
  
  Writers SA offers a year-round program of literary workshops, events, and courses, both in person and online.
  
  Writers SA members receive a discount to all ticketed workshops, members log in here to access discount prices. Not a member yet? You can join us here.
  
  For information about our cancellation and refund policy, please read our terms and conditions before you register for a workshop.
  
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- All Events
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- Online Events
- Youth Workshops
  
  Writers SA believes in fostering writers of all ages, and encouraging young writers to express their creativity and build their skills in a supportive, safe, fun and engaging environment.
  
  We hold kids writing workshops and writing clubs for young people regularly throughout the year and in the school holidays.
  
  If you are from a school or organisation we can also develop young people’s writing workshops, one-off talks and events, and other programs with and for you, please contact us at [email protected] or call on 08 8223 7662 to find out more.
  
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- Regional Program
  
  Looking for a writing workshop, community event, performance or literary showcase in regional South Australia?
  
  Our No Limits: Young Regional Writers program offers a diverse range of online and in-person writing workshops and events in three regional SA locations: Riverland, Eyre Peninsula and Limestone Coast.
  
  This project is supported by Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund – an Australian Government initiative, and Arts South Australia.
  
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- Events Calendar
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Resources

Resources

Professional resources for writers.
- Manuscript assessment
- Mentorship Program
  SA Writers Centre Mentorship Program
  The mentorship program is designed to connect our members with a suitable mentor, at any stage of their writing careers. From writing craft, editing, pre publication, to marketing and publicity mentorships – and encompassing a wide range of genres – SA Writers Centre will assist you to identify the most appropriate mentor for your needs.
  Selection of Mentor
  There are a number of mentors listed on our website. Please familiarise yourself with them and prepare a shortlist of preferred mentors. Karen Wyld Ruth Starke Rebekah Clarkson Cassandra Dean Anne Bartlett Carla Caruso Bernard Whimpress Anna Solding Scott Zarcinas Ben Stubbs Cameron Raynes Lauren Foley Jane Turner Goldsmith Tony Shillitoe Ray Tyndale
  Mentorship Application Form
  You will also need to identify at least one (maximum of three) goals for your mentorship and agree to the full terms and conditions.
  Process
  SA Writers Centre will connect you with a mentor with four weeks of application. Mentorship fees must be paid in advance in full to the Centre.
  What to expect
  Mentorship hours are billed for actual time spent, in 15 minute (minimum) increments. This includes all contact with the mentee including phone/Skype/IM conversations, emails, reading and feedback time and face to face meetings. Note this means that if you send four emails to your mentor, that will equate to one hour of mentorship time. The mentor and mentee will develop a shared timetable and plan, including identified goals, and will keep a weekly record that tracks progress towards goals and time spent by the mentor. Any questions or difficulties will be resolved by the SA Writers Centre.
  Rates
  Mentorships are offered in five hour blocks. 5 hours $550 10 hours $880 20 hours $1650 You can add additional blocks upon completion of initial blocks if you and your mentor agree that this would be beneficial for your work. [gravityform id="15" title="true" description="true"]
- Consultations
- Pre-submission Assessment
  Are you ready to send your book out to agents or publishers? Once your manuscript is ready for submission, you need to spend time perfecting your pitch—and it’s important to get it right. While all publishers and agents have their own submission guidelines, we can give you a general assessment of your synopsis, cover letter, biography and first chapter (or chapter outline if your manuscript is nonfiction) to ensure your pitch is in the best possible shape.
  - A written report with personal feedback
  - Advice and next steps from a publishing expert
  - For fiction, nonfiction, short stories.
  For prices and more information, please contact
  [email protected]
- First Feedback
  Are you just starting out as a writer and looking for some guidance? Our online First Feedback service provides an opportunity for new writers to get a first reader for their work. Submit up to 1500 words of writing or up to four pages of poetry (Times New Roman, 12pt, double-spaced) and receive a page of general feedback on your story and your writing, with some questions designed to develop and challenge your writing skills. You will receive your feedback within four weeks of submitting. This service is available for members only. For more information, please contact [email protected] [gravityform id="13" title="true" description="true"]
- Professional development
- Useful links
- Southern Write Archive
  Southern Write is the SA Writers Centre newsletter/magazine. It was discontinued in 2014, but there is a wealth of information on writing craft in these pages. 2014 March edition June edition 2013 March edition June edition September edition December edition 2012 February edition March edition June edition September edition December edition 2010 February edition March edition April edition May edition June edition July edition August edition September edition October edition November edition December edition 2009 February edition March edition April edition May edition June edition July edition August edition September edition October edition November edition December edition 2008 February edition March edition April edition May edition June edition July edition August edition September edition October edition December edition 2007 February edition March edition April edition May edition June edition July edition August edition September edition October edition November edition December edition 2006 February edition March edition April edition May edition June edition July edition August edition September edition October edition November edition December edition 2005 February edition March edition April edition May edition June edition August edition September edition October edition November edition December edition
Members

Members

Membership information and resources.
Interact

Interact

Keep up to date with those around you.
- Blog
- SA First Nations Writers Group
  The South Australian First Nations Writers Group was established to foster and develop the continuing diversity and growth of local First Nations writing in South Australia. It is coordinated by Edoardo Crismani, a descendant of the Wiradjuri people, author of poetry and short stories and working on his first novel manuscript. The group meets once a month, and currently these gatherings take place over Zoom due to Covid-19 restrictions. Meeting dates for 2020:
  - Wednesday 21 October
  - Wednesday 18 November
  - Wednesday 16 December
  The SA First Nations Writers Group is supported by Writers SA, with assistance from the Australia Council for the Arts.
- Deep Creek Residency
  Matilda Bookshop, in partnership with Writers SA, and association with Ultimo Press, are offering an annual residency fellowship to a South Australian writer. The fellowship provides support (time, writing space and mentoring) to work on a writing project of literary merit. As there are currently no SA residency fellowships offered to SA writers, the fellowship aims to remedy a gap in the literary community. Applications will be assessed by Writers SA staff, with the shortlist judged by Writers SA and Matilda Bookshop. Ultimo Press will provide consultation and manuscript assessment to the recipient.
  
  The residency is for one week (seven nights) and includes the following:
  - A travel/living subsidy of $500. Writers living in remote areas may be eligible for a higher subsidy.
  - One week’s accommodation at Grass Tree Gully in Deep Creek for uninterrupted writing time. Breakfast and lunch will be provided daily, but please note that the food provided is for the resident fellow only.
  - A one-and-a-half-hour mentorship session with author and experienced mentor, Pip Williams, a week ahead of the residency (either in-person or online), with a follow-up session at either one-month or three-months after the residency, as decided by the writer and the needs of their project. The mentor will have read the submission material, including outline/synopsis, ahead of the mentoring session. Follow-up mentoring session in 2024 is a creative check-in, and will not involve a full manuscript assessment.
  - An initial one-hour phone consultation with Ultimo Press, after reading submission material, followed by a full manuscript assessment and further one-hour consultation on delivery of finished work. How to apply:
  Applications will open Wednesday February 1st 2023, and must be submitted to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/deepcreekres by 11:59pm Saturday 1 April 2023. The successful recipients will be notified by June 30 2023.
  
  The week-long residency will take place October 16-23, 2023. There is no application fee, and no program fees apply. Regional writers may apply for a higher travel/living subsidy at the time of application and will depend on the location they are travelling from.
  
  Selection Criteria:
  
  Applications will be considered according to:
  - the impact of the opportunity on the writer,
  - the ambition and potential of the project, and
  - the quality of the support material.
  - The residency is open to both emerging and established writers
  To apply:
  
  Please follow this link where you can also upload your documents.
  - your contact details.
  - a brief, relevant bio (max. 150 words).
  - a statement addressing how the opportunity will benefit you (max. 250 words).
  - a summary/outline/synopsis of your proposed project to be undertaken during the Deep Creek residency (max. 1 page). (Please note, we are only accepting submissions of full length adult literary fiction, memoir, biography, autobiography, poetry collections and narrative non-fiction).
  - artistic support material (one chapter of manuscript, or twenty pages of writing if still in early development stage. Please outline the connection of the support material to your proposed project).
  - please advise what stage of your development the manuscript/project is at. For example, completed first draft, ideas generating phase, editing polished manuscript.
  Terms and conditions
  
  By entering this application process, you agree to the following terms and conditions:
  
  1. You must be a writer with a work in progress (the submission can be in early stages of development, but we want to see that you have a viable and dynamic project in mind).
  
  2. You must be a South Australian resident for at least 12 months.
  
  3. You must be 18 years or older.
  
  4. You must be able to take up the residency between October 16 and 23, 2023, and if circumstances beyond your control prevent you from attending during this time, you must notify Writers SA of this immediately so another applicant can be offered the fellowship.
  
  5. The successful applicant will need to make their own way to and from the residency at Grass Tree Gully in Deep Creek, South Australia.
  
  6. The final recipient will be chosen at the discretion of Writers SA and Matilda Bookshop. The decision will be final, and no discussion will be entered into with applicants. Previous applicants may reapply with the same or a different literary project. Previous winners can not reapply even if the project is new.
  
  Additional Information
  
  The house is reasonably accessible however the property is mostly rugged terrain. Please contact [email protected] if you need to discuss any accessibility queries or options in relation to the residency.
  
  Undertaking the residency is not a guarantee of publication. Ultimo Press will consider the final manuscript at their discretion.
- Writers in Schools
  Writers SA’s Writers in Schools Program embeds professional practising writers in outer suburban and regional public high schools in South Australia to teach writing skills, provide literary career pathways, and inspire a love of writing and reading in students. The program provides employment to the writers to undertake two or four-week residencies where they will work on personal creative projects. The writers will also work with teachers to provide writing workshops, author talks and other activities with students in alignment with the curriculum, and has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.
  
  2023 Writers in Schools
  
  Jude Aquilina
  
  Jude will be based at Penola High School for two weeks from the 20th February 2023.
  
  Jude Aquilina is an award-winning poet and author whose work is published in literary journals, newspapers and anthologies across Australia and abroad. She has published and edited many books. Her Wakefield Press titles include Knifing the Ice, On a moon spiced night and Tadpoles in the Torrens: poems for young readers. Jude is a freelance writer, editor, mentor and educator. She has taught creative writing to a wide sector of the community, at schools, libraries, community centres, university, TAFE, and in a prison.
  
  Jude was the 2018 recipient of the Barbara Hanrahan Fellowship. Her works in progress include a poetry collection about the outback, titled Big Backyard, a novel based on her opal-mining grandmother, and a book of South Australian ghost stories.
  
  Jude believes that everyone can write and enjoys assisting people on their writing journeys as a mentor and editor. She conducts workshops on the topics of poetry, memoir, short stories and general creative writing.
  
  Jude says: “Everyone should have a chance to try creative writing. I am thrilled to be working with the Penola High School students. It is so important to bridge the gap for under-served public high schools. Such students are of the age where imaginative and creative skills are heightened.
  
  Many high school students don’t have the opportunity to try creative writing, meet published authors or discuss writing careers and opportunities. I look forward to sharing my knowledge, offering my support and running some inspiring workshops.”
  
  Allayne Webster
  
  Allayne will be based at Roma Mitchell Secondary College March 13-24, 2023.
  
  Allayne writes Children’s and Young Adult literature. She’s a Premier’s Reading Challenge Ambassador, multiple arts grants winner, she sings and plays guitar, and sometimes she illustrates.
  
  Paper Planes (Scholastic) was a 2016 CBCA Notable, shortlisted for the Adelaide Festival Awards, and is included with the Australian Heritage Untapped Project. A Cardboard Palace (MidnightSun), a 2018 CBCA Notable, was published in Sweden. Our Little Secret (Scholastic) was listed for the Golden Inkys and has recently been republished (Ligature Press.) The Centre of My Everything (PenguinRandomHouse) was shortlisted in the 2019 Davitt Awards (crime) and the 2020 Adelaide Festival Awards. Sensitive (UQP) is published in Russia, was shortlisted in the 2020 Australian Speech Pathology Awards, and is an IBBY Outstanding Book for Young People with Disabilities. That Thing I Did (YA – Wakefield Press) was out March 2022 and Selfie (YA -Text Publishing) is out April 2023. Allayne continues to write for children and young adults.
  
  Allayne says: “I’ve been a member of Writers SA for many years and during that time my membership has provided me with a myriad of wonderful opportunities – and now I can add a residency at Roma Mitchell Secondary College to the list! Writing for children and teenagers is my life’s passion, so to get to work intensively with students and staff over a two week period is a dream come true. Normally I would be visiting a school for one or two days, but this residency means I have a greater timeframe in which to share knowledge, build skills, and deliver real community impact. I’m very excited!”
  
  Jennifer Mills
  
  Jennifer will be based at Heathfield High School May 1-14, 2023.
  
  Jennifer Mills is the author of the novels The Airways (Picador, 2021), Dyschronia (Picador, 2018), Gone (UQP, 2011) and The Diamond Anchor (UQP, 2009) and a collection of short stories, The Rest is Weight (UQP, 2012). In 2019 Dyschronia was shortlisted for the Miles Franklin Literary Award, Australia’s most prestigious prize for literary fiction, the Adelaide Festival Awards for Literature, and the Aurealis Awards for science fiction. The Rest is Weight was shortlisted for the 2013 Queensland Literary Awards Steele Rudd Award for an Australian Short Story Collection and longlisted for the 2013 Frank O’Connor International Short Story Award.
  
  If you are interested in including a writer in your school, please contact [email protected]
  
  Subscribe to Writers SA for news about the latest updates of the Writers in Schools project.
- A Year in Review
  Writers SA in partnership with The Adelaide Review have launched ‘A Year in Review’, a new national program of literary criticism, supported by The Australia Council for the Arts. As a recipient of The Australia Council of the Arts COVID-19 Resilience Fund, Writers SA will deliver a year-long literary criticism program designed to provide important coverage to Australian authors affected by the pandemic, and a platform for emerging local critics. The first review will be published shortly. Keep your eyes on The Adelaide Review and this page for the latest. For more information on the project, click here.
- Writers & Readers in Residence
  In 2018, Writers SA launched its Writers and Readers in Residence Project, in which South Australian and international writers undertake an artistic residency in regional communities to activate reading as well as writing in the town. The Writers and Readers in Residence Project will take place from 2018 to 2020, and has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body. In the first year of the project, residencies were awarded to Bernice Chauly (Malaysia), Jane Howard, Karen Wyld and Manal Younus.
  2018 Writers and Readers in Residence
  
  Bernice Chauly
  Bernice Chauly is a novelist, poet and educator. She is the award-winning author of six books of poetry and prose which include the acclaimed memoir Growing up With Ghosts, Onkalo, and the novel Once We Were There, which won the Penang Monthly Book Prize 2017. Since 2011, she has directed the George Town Literary Festival, shortlisted at the London Book Fair’s International Excellence Awards 2017. Her contribution to the Griffith Review: Commonwealth Now is “The Batang Kali massacre, Truth still denied”. While on her Writers SA residency, Bernice worked with South Australian poet Ali Cobby Eckermann at her property in Koolunga. She also appeared at Adelaide Writers Week and New Zealand Festival.
  Jane Howard
  Jane Howard is a journalist, critic, artist and researcher who works throughout Australia. She is a contributing editor at Kill Your Darlings Journal, where she focuses on podcast criticism, and a regular contributor to Guardian Australia. Jane has worked for the Guardian across Australia and in Asia; had writing commissioned in England, Scotland, Canada, and the Czech Republic. She was director of the 2016 Digital Writers’ Festival and coordinator of HIVE at the 2017 Adelaide Film Festival. Jane is currently manager of communications and development at ActNow, and a research assistant at Deakin University. Jane undertook her residency in Renmark in partnership with the Renmark Paringa Library. Jane met with local readers at the library and with students at St. Joseph’s School Renmark and Glossop High School, and ran a workshop at Riverland Youth Theatre.
  Karen Wyld
  
  As a freelancer, Karen writes trade book reviews for Books + Publishing and has op-eds published in NITV, Meanjin, Al Jazeera, Guardian Australia and Indigenous X. She has a piece in the Spring issue of Meanjin, which is a fictional telling of four girls in Western Australia, who were part of the Stolen Generations. Her debut novel, When Rosa Came Home, was shortlisted for a SA Readers & Writers People’s Choice Award in 2015. Her draft manuscript, Where the Fruit Falls, was shortlisted for the Richell Prize in 2017. Karen was a participant of Hardcopy in 2018, after being awarded the inaugural ACT Writers & First Nations Australia Writers Network Indigenous Writers Scholarship.
  
  Karen spent a month in Ceduna for her residency, where she edited her novel, Where the Fruit Falls, which she worked on during the Hardcopy professional development program for writers. She also commenced her next project, Bestiarium Terra Nullius: peculiar beings of uninhabited southern lands, which is a series of three novellas. Following the journeys of maritime explorers, such as Nicolas Baudin and Matthew Flinders, some of this work is based in the Great Australian Bight.
  
  While in Ceduna Karen was hosted by the Ceduna School Community Library, and presented writing workshops with readers from the wider community, the Ceduna Area School, and met with community at Arts Ceduna and Far West Languages Centre.
  
  Manal Younus
  Manal Younus is an Australian based freelance storyteller from Eritrea who believes that language and stories are the very fabric of our existence. The young artist also facilitates writing, performance, public speaking, youth empowerment and intercultural awareness workshops in schools, community groups. Younus has featured on ABC’s QandA, presented at the Adelaide TEDx Conference in 2016, the National Multicultural Women’s Conference of 2016, the Adelaide Festival of Ideas and Open State Festival, the Halogen Foundation’s Young Leaders Convention, The Council for International Schools Conference 2017 and James Cook University’s Young Language Ambassadors Conference of 2018. Manal’s residency took place in Port Augusta in partnership with the Port Augusta Public Library. She also spent time with local writers, readers and artists, in particular with the local community arts groups Desert Voices Choir and Dusty Feet Mob. Manal focused on writing a new collection of poetry, which explores youth, self, femininity, faith and migration. Following her residency, Manal will keep in touch with the community through digital updates to show the progression of her writing work. Subscribe to Writers SA for news about the 2019-20 iterations of the Writers and Readers in Residence Project.
- Context Writers Festival
  
  Context Writers Festival is a free, three-day festival for writers to connect and share new conversations about story and truth.
  
  Presented in partnership by Writers SA and City of Adelaide, the 2021 Context Festival features a diverse range of local and national authors to inspire new conversations, held on Kaurna Yarta (Adelaide), from 8–10 October. The program features Professor Aileen Moreton-Robinson, Natalie Harkin, Soul Lounge poets Stevie Zhao, Manal Younus and Prosper, journalists Anisha Pillarisetty and Royce Kurmelovs, musician Corey Theatre, zine-maker Ruby Allegra, novelist Karen Wyld, and many more.
  
  Context Writers Festival
  October 8-10
  Adelaide City Library
  Auslan interpretation will be available on all sessions. Please see library accessibility information here.
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  An initiative of the City of Adelaide delivered in partnership by Writers SA
- See Me Through My Hands
  In 2020 and 2021, Writers SA presented ‘Deaf Storytellers Live’ and ‘See Me Through My Hands’ at Adelaide Writers Week – performances featuring emerging writers from the Deaf community telling stories in Auslan. Thank you to the writers – Stuart Anderson, Joanna Agius OAM, Debra Swann, Paul Bartlett, Samantha Wilson, Sophia Borick and Kate Frost, mentors Manal Younus, Hannah Kent, Jared Thomas and Sean Williams, facilitator Indigo Eli and our team of interpreters. Supported by Aesop Foundation and City of Adelaide.
- National Writers’ Centre Network
  The National Writers’ Centre Network is Australia’s largest network of writers. The network supports and connects writers in all the States and Territories of Australia. Together, we represent more than 10,000 members and a much broader constituency of early career, emerging and established authors – across all genres, all styles and all parts of Australia.
  ACT Writers
  Doonkuna Wing, Gorman House Arts Centre, Ainslie Avenue, Braddon ACT
  NT Writers’ Centre
  Froghollow Centre for the Arts, 55 McMinn Street, Darwin NT
  Queensland Writers Centre
  Level 2, State Library of Queensland, Cultural Centre, Stanley Place, South Bank QLD
  TasWriters
  77 Salamanca Place, Hobart TAS
  Writing NSW
  Callan Park, Balmain Road, Rozelle, NSW
  Writers SA
  Institute Building, Kintore Avenue, Adelaide SA
  Writers Victoria
  Level 3, The Wheeler Centre, 176 Little Lonsdale Street, VIC
  Writing WA
  Alexander Library Building, 25 Francis Street, Perth Cultural Centre, WA
- Liminal x Writers SA
  
  Writing Commissions & Editorial Mentorship 2022
  
  Submission period: 1 September–1 October, 2021
  
  We are thrilled to announce that Writers SA is collaborating with Liminal magazine!
  
  We are welcoming fiction and non-fiction pitches from both emerging and established Asian-Australian writers who live in South Australia. Selected works responding to the theme of Haunt will be published online, in a collection of Asian-Australian excellence that sees Liminal’s first South Australian series, to be published in 2022.
  
  Alongside these commissions, Liminal will facilitate a mentorship for two emerging editors, who will work with editors Cher Tan and Elizabeth Flux for hands-on experience editing our South Australian series.
  
  If your pitch is successful, the editorial mentorship and writing commissions will be remunerated.
  For more information, please see below.
  
  Liminal x Writers SA Writing Commissions 2022
  
  Call For Fiction & Non-Fiction Pitches
  
  Led by Cher Tan & Elizabeth Flux, alongside two emerging editors.
  
  What spectres linger? What superstitions appear in the day to day? Whether it be ghosts of people or ideas, experiences that cause ripples through lives and generations, places you return to again and again, we want to hear what ‘haunt’ means to you.
  
  The Liminal writing commissions call for fiction and non-fiction writers to send through a pitch of their best ideas. We are looking for work that touches on the theme of Haunt, in the broadest ways possible; you are welcome to take the theme and split it apart, interrogate it, or turn it inside out. We welcome work from both emerging and established Asian-Australian writers.
  
  Writers will be paid $600 each, for their piece in the Liminal x Writers SA series.
  
  Submit here
  
  Liminal x Writers SA Editorial Mentorship
  
  Call For Emerging Editors
  
  Mentored by Cher Tan & Elizabeth Flux
  
  The Liminal & Writers SA Editorial Mentorship invites emerging Asian-Australian editors based in South Australia to apply for an editorial mentorship. The mentorship will be conducted online, and involve working closely with Cher Tan (non-fiction) and Elizabeth Flux (fiction) to edit the Liminal x Writers SA series. Each selected mentee will learn how to edit and shape pieces for digital publication, as well as receive feedback and guidance throughout the entire editorial process.
  
  Each emerging editor will be paid a stipend of $1600, which will support the upskilling and development of an emerging Asian-Australian editor based in South Australia.
  
  Submit here
  
  THIS PROJECT IS PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LIMINAL MAGAZINE, AND IS SUPPORTED BY ARTS SOUTH AUSTRALIA.
- Lit Market Lab
  Writers SA is excited to announce a state industry first, the Lit Market Lab. This October in Adelaide, we will connect 20 aspiring and emerging South Australian writers with representatives from the Australian publishing industry over an intensive weekend to forge professional relationships, grow networks and—most importantly—pitch their books. Joining us will be: Rachel Bin Salleh, Magabala Books Robert Watkins, Ultimo Press Kelly Fagen, Allen & Unwin Alex Adsett, Alex Adsett Literary Agency Melanie Ostell, Melanie Ostell Literary Agency Grace Heifetz, Leftbank Literary …and more to be announced. Writers SA is now accepting applications from unpublished writers with a completed manuscript in any form or genre, and those with only a single publication and no current representation. We especially encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander writers, writers with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse writers, and those living in outer suburban, regional and remote areas. See below for more information about what each professional is looking for. Apply here Applications close 11:59pm on Monday 13 September. The Lit Market Lab is supported by Arts South Australia. Publishers Rachel Bin Salleh, Magabala Books (WA) Only accepting pitches from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creators, and if there are any non-Indigenous peoples involved, they would need to either be co-author or part of the storytelling process. Magabala Books publishes in all genres. (co-authors can apply together in one application)
  Robert Watkins, Ultimo Press (NSW) Currently interested in contemporary literary fiction and contemporary reading group fiction. ‘Also keen to read psychological thrillers, but not looking for crime that sits outside what might be considered a psychological thriller (procedurals, mystery, traditional outback crime etc). I will read historical literary fiction if it has themes that feel contemporary! Ps I also like short fiction – but only if the collection has a unifying theme across the collection.’
  Kelly Fagen, Allen and Unwin (NSW) A&U publishes a wide range of Australian fiction and non-fiction and Kelly is looking for books from largely new authors who have something to say that is currently missing from our national and international conversations.
  Agents Alex Adsett, Alex Adsett Literary Agency (QLD) Seeking: Crime or mystery, romance, science fiction or fantasy (except urban fantasy), commercial fiction, literary fiction (with a strong narrative), narrative nonfiction, young adult, or middle grade fiction. Particularly looking for BIPOC authors or those from marginalised backgrounds.
  Not seeking: Comedic SciFi Fantasy or crime, or any kind of satire or parody; no short stories, no poetry, no works that have already been published or self-published. No straight memoir, unless there is a really great hook. No urban fantasy, unless there is a genuinely fresh perspective.
  Melanie Ostell, Melanie Ostell Literary Agency (VIC) I’m keen to unearth distinctive voices and wonderful stories in commercial fiction, crime, literary, historical fiction, narrative non-fiction, memoir and only interested in select YA and middle grade. No microfiction, expansive fantasy series, poetry or plays.
  Grace Heifetz, Leftbank Literary (NSW) Open to most genres but not looking for kids & YA, genre or lifestyle/illustrated at this time.
  Applicants must:
  - Have a completed and polished manuscript not currently under consideration or contract
  - Be previously unpublished, be unpublished in the last ten years, or, have one full length novel or collection published but not be under contract or represented for a second novel or collection*
  - Be a permanent resident living in South Australia
  Applications must include:
  - Biography (300 words)
  - Synopsis and/or summary
  - The impact this opportunity will have on your writing career
  - The genre you are writing in and word count of your manuscript
  - Your dream publisher if there were no barriers and why
  - Completed manuscript as an attachment***
  - If the manuscript has been previously submitted to anyone on the list of attending professionals, and if so, please advise where and the year.
  This program aims to provide opportunity to writers who are not always reflected in the literary establishment. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander writers, culturally and linguistically diverse writers, writers with disability, working class writers, writers living in the outer suburbs, and those in regional or remote areas. Terms and Conditions: * Previously published includes self-published or traditionally published books, including full-length collections of poetry or short stories. **A travel and accommodation subsidy can be provided for regional or remote applicants. Please note where you will be travelling from in your application. ***Manuscript attachment will not be supplied to, or viewed by, anyone outside of Writers SA. Taking part in the Literary Market Lab weekend does not guarantee publication or that agency representation will be offered, however the opportunity to make industry connections will be invaluable. In addition to inclusion in this program, each participant will be offered a one year Writers SA membership (or membership renewal). Attendance over the three days, including some meals, is free to the 20 successful applicants. Covid-19 contingency Writers SA is committed to the safety of our community. If a Covid-19 outbreak or lockdown should occur, the event will be postponed or presented in a digital format. If a participant is required to self-isolate or their movement is restricted at the time of the event, Writers SA will endeavour to accommodate attendance through digital or other means. If Covid-19 restricts the participation of our interstate guests, their sessions will be postponed or presented digitally.
- Council Partnerships and Events
- No Limits: Young Regional Writers
  [caption id="attachment_56609" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Eyre Peninsula by Jack Baldwin, The Lead South Australia, licensed under CC BY 2.0[/caption] Writers SA is expanding our operations into the regions! Our project No Limits: Young Regional Writers supports literary activities in the regions, and creates industry pathways for young regional writers, from skills to publication. The project supports coordinators in three regional SA locations (Renmark, Eyre Peninsula and Mount Gambier), employs diverse authors to present skills-based writing workshops, commissions new literary work by young regional writers, connects young writers with publishers and industry representatives, and presents performance events and literary showcases in regional Country Arts SA venues for communities of readers and writers. With events delivered in-person and online, young regional writers are connected with professional peers and audiences from around Australia. This project is supported by Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund – an Australian Government initiative, and Arts South Australia. As of May 2021, Alysha Herrmann has stepped into the role of Statewide Regional Manager and Riverland Coordinator. She is currently recruiting coordinators in Eyre Peninsula and Mt Gambier regions. Contact [email protected] for more information.
- Teen Writers Club
  
  Writers SA hosts a Teen Writers Club each term in-person. High school aged teens meet on Saturday mornings at City Library just off Rundle Mall for 8 weeks starting at the end of week 1.
  
  Dan Thorsland is our 2021 group facilitator! Dan is an editor, writer, video and film producer, who contributed to Superwoman, Wonder Woman and Star Wars comic series when he worked for DC and Dark Horse. Dan has moved on from his position at video game producer Mighty Kingdom and now works for Flinders University.
  
  Facilitators change term-to-term and provide structure and advice for the group with help on all forms and mediums related to creative writing. Sessions are casual and there are no hard outcomes, just a fun and inclusive atmosphere to build relationships with other writers and to learn to write or learn to write better.
  
  The cost of participation for each term is $200 and while registrations are open, you can find the event link under the ‘Program’ tab. Places are limited to keep the group manageable and if Covid creates restrictions, we move to a Zoom or Groups online location.
  
  If you’d like to find out more information or to be added to a mailing list when registrations are coming up, please email [email protected]
  
  Writers SA does not currently have a program for primary school aged children but please ask your local council library if they have any workshops coming up.
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Home > Develop > Competitions and Opportunities

Competitions and Opportunities

A guide to writing prizes, awards and competitions in 2023

The audience at the announcement of the 2021 mindshare Awards. Photo via mindshare

Whatever your writing goals for 2023, you’ll find a range of opportunities in our round-up of literary prizes, competitions, fellowships, calls for submissions and more below—updated weekly!

Subscribe to our weekly e-news for the latest opportunities straight to your inbox, and view a list of Australian and international publications here.

Writing prizes are a great way to give yourself a deadline, build your publication credits, as well offering a financial incentive at any stage of your writing career. Keep an eye on our program of workshops to get you ready to enter your best work.

Please note that inclusion on this page is not an endorsement. Writers should always carefully check terms and conditions for information on fees, rights, and eligibility.

Do you have an opportunity to share? Submit it for review here.

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2023

January

Call for Entries: Back to Basics — Thematic residency in Finland 2023
Back to Basics residency program gives artists the opportunity to clear their mind, get back to focus and (re)discover the very basis of their being. Thematic residency program for artists, writers and creative professionals at Arteles Creative Center in Hämeenkyrö, Finland 1 month periods in May / June / July / August 2023. Deadline to apply: 11 January 2023.

Calibre Essay Prize
ABR welcomes entries in the Calibre Essay Prize, worth $7,500. The Prize is open to all essayists writing in English. We seek essays of between 2,000 and 5,000 words on any subject. Closes 15 January.

Country Arts SA Skills Development Assistance Grants
Grants up to $1,500 are available to support artists and arts workers to participate in professional development opportunities. The grants are fast-turnaround and are intended for those who wish to undertake a time sensitive opportunity. Open 16 January until 30 June.

Submissions for The Saltbush Review
The Saltbush Review seeks submissions of short fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction of up to 3,000 words on the theme of ‘Intersections.’ Work is particularly welcome from regional, emerging and diverse writers. 20th January 2023.

Varuna First Nations Fellowships
Each year, six fellowships are awarded to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander writers from anywhere in Australia. The fellowship week includes an optional one-on-one mentoring session, and group reading sessions. Writers will also be offered the opportunity to have a discussion with Rachel Bin Salleh, Publisher at Magabala Books in a culturally safe space.The Fellowship includes accommodation and meals at Varuna, as well as a contribution towards your travel expenses. Applications close 20 January.

2023 Kat Muscat Fellowship
Offers professional development up to the value of $5,000 for an editorial project or work of writing by a young person of an underrepresented gender. If your work epitomises the values of defiance, feminism and empathy, you have until January 23 to apply!

Local Word Writing Prize
Submissions of up to 3000 words are welcome from emerging and established writers in prose fiction and creative nonfiction. The winner of the prize will receive a cash prize of $2000, a one-hour mentoring session with a Deakin University writing practitioner, publication on GRLC’s website and announcement in GRLC’s e-newsletter. Entries close at 5.00pm, Saturday 28 January.

Tom Collins Poetry Prize
Poets are invited to submit up to five unpublished pieces for the chance to be recognised among Australia’s most talented poets. The theme is open for poems up to 60 lines each.First prize is $1,000, second is $300, and third is $100. 30 January.

The Masters Review Short Story Award For New Writers
The annual contest for emerging writers, with cash prizes up to $3000, publication online and agency review. Closes 31 January.

The ASA Award Mentorship Program
Open to writers and illustrators, the mentorship offers one-on-one advice, free ASA membership, access to events and services to develop their work to a publishable standard. Closes 31 January.

Positive Words Mini-Competition
Write a short story in 100 words or less, or a poem in ten lines or less using the word POOL at least once. Plural versions are acceptable. The prize is a six-month subscription. *Fee. Enter by 31 January.

ASAL/Copyright Agency Writers’ Fellowships
Two writers’ fellowships worth $3000 each to strengthen connections between writers, readers, students, and scholars of Australian literature. The fellowships include a $3000 honorarium, flights, accommodation, and registration at the ASAL annual conference in Melbourne in July 2023, social media promotion, a profile on the ASAL website, publication of a piece of fiction, nonfiction or poetry in the Journal of the Association for the Study of Australian Literature and a one-year subscription to the Austlit database. Applications close on 31st January.

black&write! Writing Fellowships
Each year the State Library of Queensland’s black&write! offers two fellowships for unpublished manuscripts by Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander writers. The winning Fellows will receive $10,000 prize money, as well as manuscript development with black&write! and publication opportunity with Hachette. Applications close 31 January.

February

Call for submissions: Plumwood Mountain Journal
Plumwood Mountain Journal’s guest editor Kristen Lang is calling for poets willing to reach imaginatively, provocatively, enticingly towards cultural change. Right now, poets and non-poets alike are invited to help build the ideas that will contribute to this issue by reading and contributing to comments at Plumwood Mountain‘s submissions page. Submissions of poetry will be invited via Submittable between 16 December 2022 and 3 February 2023.

The Wakefield Weekly Writing Competition
An exciting monthly challenge for authors Australia-wide. Each month, they release a new prompt for authors to respond to. The prize for the winning author (or authors) includes gift vouchers and the publication of winning entries on the Wakefield Press blog. The current prompt is ‘holding on’. 3 February.

2023 Russell Prize for Humour Writing
$10,000 prize open to published works of fiction, non-fiction, poetry and short story collections by Australian writers. The Humour Writing for Young People Award commends works aimed at primary school readers. Entries close 3 February.

The National Biography Award
Celebrating excellence in biography, autobiography and memoir, this is one of the nation’s richest prizes for Australian non-fiction writing. 3 February.

Express Media jobs (Melbourne based)
Express Media are now looking for a Creative Producer and Communications and Administration Coordinator. Find out more and apply by February 3.

un Projects submissions
un Projects are inviting proposals for Issue 17.1 of un Magazine, guest edited by Bahar Sayed and Gemma Weston. This issue will guided by the theme of ‘Resist.’ 6 February.

Regional Arts Fund Project Grants
Individuals or organisations can apply for up to $30,000 for a project, Round 1 2023 will open 6 February.

The Kathleen Mitchell Award
Presented biennially to an author, aged 30 or under, of an outstanding novel or novella to encourage advancement in their literary career. The novel or novella must have been published or accepted for publication within the 2 years prior to the Award closing date. The recipient will receive $15,000. 7 February.

Australia Council Grants
Applications are open for a range of literary grants, covering essay writing, poetry, prose, novel/novella writing and more. There are two awards of $15,000 each and multiple $50,000 travel scholarships on offer. Applications close 7 February.

Galang Residency Program
Powerhouse Parramatta and the Cité internationale des arts have launched the galang residency program, which will support Australia-based First Nations artists and creatives to undertake residencies in Paris, at the Cité internationale des arts. The galang residency is an initiative of Powerhouse Artistic Associate, Wiradjuri artist, writer and curator Dr Brook Garru Andrew and was inspired by the Powerhouse-galang, an international collective of First Nations artists, academics and curators. Two three-month fully supported residencies will be offered between 4 May – 28 July and 3 July – 27 September. Applications close 9 February.

The 20/40 Publishing Prize
20/40 is an exciting new publishing prize for single works of prose fiction and non-fiction, between 20,00 and 40,00 words in length. 20/40 is established by independent, non-profit press Finlay Lloyd. Entries will be assessed blind by a panel of judges with the intention of publishing two winning books each year. Entries will open: 1 January —10 February 2023.

SHE of Mind and Body Writing Competition
Currently seeking written works for inclusion in the SHE exhibition catalogue. Submit up to 500 words for a chance to win $1,000 prize. February 7.

The 2023 Next Generation Indie Book Awards
Open to all indie book authors and publishers including independent publishers, university presses, self-published authors, e-book authors, seasoned authors and first time authors who have a book published with a 2021, 2022 or 2023 copyright date. *Fee. February 10.

Stringybark Open Short Story Award 2023
Our annual flagship competition, the Stringybark Stories Open Short Story Award 2023, is now bigger than ever! Thanks to Graeme Simpson and Anne Buist, a record prize pool of over $1300 is on offer. The theme is open, the only constraint is that there must be a reference to Australia somewhere in the story. It doesn’t matter how small a link there is (it could be a jar of vegemite on the counter), there just needs to be one! 1500 words. Entry fee. 12 February 2023.

Speculative Fiction Festival 2023
Writing NSW’s Speculative Fiction Festival returns on 24 June and is calling for submissions from both established and new voices who are keen to share insights and discuss all aspects of the genre. Submissions close 13 February.

Tasmanian Writers’ Prize 2023
Open to citizens/permanent residents of Australia and New Zealand, the prize is for short stories up to 3,000 words having an island, or island-resonant, theme. The winner will receive a cash prize of $500 and publication in Forty South Tasmania (online). A selection of the best entries will be published in the Forty South Short Story Anthology 2023. February 14.

Australian Book Industry Awards
The ABIA award ceremony is Australia’s book industry’s night of nights. Nominations are open from Thursday 19 January 2023 – Wednesday 15 February.

Voices of Women annual writing competition
Now inviting submissions of all unpublished short monologues and narratives written in the first person by Australian and United States writers with the theme ’embellishment’. Winners receive $100, performance, and publication on the website. February 18.

ATYP Youth Advisory Body
Australia Theatre for Young People (ATYP) is inviting 50 young people aged 13 to 26 from all over Australia to join its advisory body, YABbies. In 2023, the YABbies will get to review professional and indie theatre productions, provide input and suggestions around ATYP’s programs and offerings, learn about the governance of ATYP, attend Q&A sessions with creative teams and more. Applications close 20 February.

The Text Prize for Young Adult and Children’s Writing + Steph Bowe Mentorship
Awarded annually to the best manuscript written for young readers, the $10,000 Text Prize for Young Adult and Children’s Writing aims to discover incredible new books by exciting authors. The Steph Bowe Mentorship for Young Writers is an initiative designed to nurture and encourage an exciting new writer in Australian children’s literature under the age of 25. Entries for both are open until 4 pm on Monday 20 February.

The Writer’s Lab: SA Program
The Music Writer’s Lab is a critical music journalism mentorship program, where 4 emerging writers will work with a team of established Australian music journalists and industry figures.
The program centres around mentoring and professional development workshops.
Participants will have their piece (whether it be live review, artist profile or industry op-ed feature) based on live performances at WOMADelaide during a 4-day workshop, published by The Note. 22 February.

Oodgeroo Noonuccal Indigenous Poetry Prize
Queensland Poetry presents Australia’s only open-age prize for an unpublished poem by an Indigenous writer. 26 February.

Charles Perkins Centre Writer in Residence 2023: EOIs open
Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are now open for the Judy Harris Writer in Residence Fellowship at the Charles Perkins Centre 2023. The year-long Fellowship offers a generous stipend of $100k for an established Australian creative writer to collaborate with CPC researchers to begin a creative work relating to issues around health. Closing 11:30pm Monday 27 February 2023

Book Link Awards for Children’s Historical Fiction
Book Links celebrates outstanding work of children’s historical fiction. The award is a prize of $1000. Entries close 28 February.

Minds Shine Bright Writing Competition Confidence 2023
Now calling for entries of short stories, short scripts, flash fiction and poetry which explore the theme of confidence. Prizes: $1600 overall winner; $800 for each category winners: short stories, short scripts, flash fiction and poetry; $175 for each commended entry. Entry fee $5. Winning and commended entries will be published in an anthology. The competition is blind judged. 28 February 2023.

City of Port Adelaide Enfield Living Landscapes Writing Competition
Submit your best short stories about our natural environment! The Living Landscapes Writing Competition highlights the importance of nature writing and its ability to enable us to see the natural world anew. Write and share your story that celebrates our rich and diverse region; the tapestry of coastlines, dunes, rivers, wetlands, mangroves, parks and reserves in the City of PAE.
Junior Writer (up to 12 years) – $200 book voucher
Teen Writer (13 to 20 years) – $500 prize plus a Writers SA membership
Adult Writer (20+ years) – $500 prize plus a Writers SA membership and Port Environment Centre membership. **entries extended, now closing 5pm 28 February.

Country Arts SA Quick Response Grants
Up to $3000 for Individuals; Up to $5000 for Organisations/Community Groups. Grants will fund professional development opportunities for artists and arts workers or small project opportunities. The program supports immediate need that arises. Open 10 times each year during the following months: February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November. Applications must be submitted by 11:29pm (ACST) on the last day of each month.

Audience at the Arts SA Ruby Awards

March

Growing Up Indian in Australia: Call for submissions
Black Inc. is excited to announce that submissions are open for Growing Up Indian in Australia, a new anthology, edited by Aarti Betigeri. March 1.

Carclew’s Project & Development grants for individuals
Carclew offers grants to early career artists aged 26 years or under, for arts projects with a tangible outcome and/or skills and career development. Project & Development grants for individuals provide up to $10,000 and are offered twice per year for activity occurring in the following six months. Closing 1 March.

Churchill Fellowships
The fellowships offer a diverse range of people from all walks of life an opportunity to travel overseas for four to eight weeks to explore a topic or issue that they are passionate about. Applications open 1 March.

RSPB and The Rialto Nature and Place Competition
The RSPB and The Rialto are additionally working with BirdLife International, the Cambridge Conservation Initiative and the University of Leeds Poetry Centre. There’s a fantastic range of prizes on offer and prizewinners will be invited to read their poems at an event with Ian McMillan at CCI in June 2023. 1st PRIZE £1000. 2nd PRIZE £500. 3rd PRIZE £250. Judge is celebrated poet Ian McMillan. Closing date is midnight on 1 March.

Mulga Bill Writing Award
Goldfields Libraries and Eaglehawk Festivals Inc. are calling for entries from writers all over Australia for the annual Mulga Bill Writing Award. Writers are encouraged to take inspiration from the theme ‘gold’, and submit a poem (max. 25 lines) or short story (max. 2000 words). Writers of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to apply. Entry fee is $5. Entries close Friday 3 March.

Adelaide Writers Week YA Microstory
Calling all young writers (18 years old or younger)! The AWW YA Microstory Competition will run again in 2023. Stories should be 50 words or less on the theme Truth Be Told. Entries close 4 March.

SCWC Poetry Award
The SCWC Poetry Award 2023 seeks poems responding to the theme ‘in colour’. The winning entries will be published in the South Coast Writers Centre’s 2023 Anthology as well as receive cash prizes. Closing 5 March.

KYD New Australian Fiction
Submissions for New Australian Fiction 2023 annual anthology, will open on Monday 30 January. KYD encourages writers from diverse backgrounds and all levels of experience to submit to the short story collection. Closing 5 March.

Liminal Review of Books
Liminal magazine are seeking pitches for The Liminal Review of Books, send your pitch before 6 March.

GREENHOUSE: NATIONAL ARTIST RESIDENCY
GreenHouse: National Artist Residency is an immersive, residential creative development program for live performance-makers from across Australia. March 6.

Australia Council Arts Projects for Individuals and Groups Grants
This program funds a range of activities that deliver benefits to the arts sector and wider public, including national and international audiences. Grants are available from $10,000 to $50,000. Closing 7 March.

Island Magazine submissions
Island Mag is seeking new fiction and non-fiction content around 1500 words. Experimental and literary approaches to form and content are welcomed. 9 March.

Jennifer Burbidge Short Story Award
Accepting stories, fiction or non-fiction, on the theme of disability. Stories must be up to 3000 words. Open to all writers in Australia. Entry is $15. The winners will receive $500 first prize, $250 runner-up. Submissions close 10 March.

Peter Carey Short Story Award
The Peter Carey Short Story Award is back for 2023, opening for entries on January 30 and closing on March 16. The award is for stories between 2000 – 3000 words and is open to all Australian residents. Entry is $15 per story. The winning entry receives $2000 and the runner-up $1000. First and second prized stories will also be published in Meanjin. Longlisted entries will be judged by Anne Casey-Hardy, author of Cautionary Tales For Excitable Girls. Closing 16 March.

Sunspot Lit Submissions
Sunspot Lit’s calls for longform, standard length, and flash fiction, CNF, graphic novels and poetry are closing in 16 March.

The Speech Pathology Australia Book of the Year
The awards aim to promote children’s books as literacy tools, as well as raising awareness of the role of speech pathologists play in helping children develop language and literacy skills. 17 March.

The Daisy Utemorrah Award
Open to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander writers currently living in Australia. This annual award is presented to an Indigenous writer for an unpublished manuscript of junior or YA fiction. The winner receives $15,000 and a publishing contract with Magabala Books. Closes 30 March.

The Sheila Malady Short Story Competition
The competition invites wordsmiths to be inspired by the words of William Shakespeare with original work of 2000 words or less to the prompt “two’s company”. Cash prize. *Fee. Closes 31 March.

Best Australian Science Writing and the UNSW Press Bragg Prize for Science Writing 2023
Entries are now open for writers to submit their pieces for consideration in The Best Australian Science Writing and the UNSW Press Bragg Prize for Science Writing. Pieces must have been published in print or online in Australia or globally between 1 January 2022 and 31 March 2023. Closes 31 March.

The Caterpillar Poetry Prize
The Caterpillar Poetry Prize is an annual prize for an unpublished poem written by an adult for children aged 7–11. Closes 31 March.

Crawling Anthology
Submissions are now welcome for Hear Us Scream press’s debut short story collection: CRAWLING. They are looking for sub-dermal body horror about terrors lurking under the skin: infestations and transformations with an emphasis on the embodied experience. March 31.

Helberg Writer-in-Residence
Applications have opened for the 12-week Hedberg Writer-In-Residence at the University of Tasmania. This includes a $20,000 living allowance and $10,000 worth of university-provided accommodation. March 31.

The Eleanor Taylor Bland Crime Fiction Writers of Color Award
An annual grant of $2,000 for an emerging writer of color. This grant is intended to support the recipient in crime fiction writing and career development activities. The grantee may choose to use the grant for activities that include workshops, seminars, conferences, retreats, online courses, and research activities required for completion of the work. The 2023 Submissions will be open February 1 – March 31.

Furious Fiction
On the first Friday of a new season (March, June, September, December), you are invited to submit a short story up to 500 words and be in the running to win $500.

Australian Antarctic Arts Fellowship
The Fellowship allows creatives to travel south to experience Antarctica, the sub-Antarctic and the Southern Ocean and Australia’s activities there, so that they can communicate these unique first-hand experiences, insights and understanding to others. Arts Fellowship expressions of interest generally open in March each year.

The Wakefield Weekly Writing Competition
An exciting monthly prize for authors Australia-wide. Each month, we challenge authors to respond to our current prompt in 1500 words or less. The prize for the winning author/s includes gift vouchers and publication of the winning entry/ies on the Wakefield Press blog. The current prompt is ‘reading the tea leaves’. March 31.

April

Deep Creek Residency
Matilda Bookshop, in partnership with Writers SA and Ultimo Press, offer a residency fellowship to a SA writer, providing a travel subsidy, 7 nights’ accommodation, mentorship, and consultation/assessment with Ultimo Press. Applications will open Wednesday February 1st, 2023, and must be submitted by 11:59pm 1 April.

Penguin Random House Australia Write It Fellowship
The Fellowship aspires to find, nurture and develop unpublished writers across all genres with a focus on under-represented sections of our community, such as writers from socio-economically marginalised backgrounds, LGBTQIA+, First Nations, CALD (culturally and linguistically diverse) or writers with a disability. Recipients will be mentored by a PRH AU editor to work on their manuscript, participate in an Open Day at PRH AU and will receive a $2,000 stipend. April 3.

OPEN BOOK: AUSTRALIAN PUBLISHING INTERNSHIPS
The program aims to foster cultural and linguistic diversity in the Australian publishing industry, offering paid internships in Sydney and Melbourne. Of the positions, one is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander identified role.The Sydney hosts are Allen & Unwin and HarperCollins, and the Melbourne hosts are Hardie Grant, Oxford University Press, Scribe Publications and Thames & Hudson. 3 April.

AusCo International Travel Fund for Authors and Illustrators
Individuals or international literary organisations may apply to support authors and illustrators to travel to attend events and activities associated with publication and promotion of their work in international markets. 4 April.

Griffith Review
Griffith Review are looking for fiction and non-fiction that addresses the question asked by Issue 81, around the theme of the leisure principle more submission details and criteria can be found on their website. 9 April.

First Nations Writers’ Fellowship
The JM Coetzee Centre for Creative Practice First Nations Fellowships support the production of new work by First Nations artists, to be awarded to creative writers/storytellers and musicians, beginning with a writer in 2023. The Fellowship comprises $10,000 for creative development of a project, and office space at the Centre. 16 April.

Desperate Literature Short Fiction Prize
Any style or genre are welcome, up to under 2000 words, shortlisted authors published in paid anthology and considered for publication elsewhere. The winner gets a stay in the Civitella Ranieri residency and a manuscript assessment, also offers runner-up prizes. April 16.

AIATSIS Summit Sponsored Delegates
Sponsorship funding is available to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to attend the Summit as speakers, facilitators and delegates. Applications close on 14 April.

ABR Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize
Open to original short stories of between 2,000 and 5,000 words. 1st prize: $6,000 2nd prize: $4,000 3rd prize: $2,500. Closes 24 April.

Copyright Agency Cultural Fund
A range of grants are offered for Australian writers, the application details and dates ate uploaded throughout the year, with the first round closing 24 April.

Australian Poetry Anne Elder Award
Poetry books Books published between 1 January 2022 and 31 December 2022 are eligible for entry into the award, valued at $1,000. 24 April.

Bristol Short Story Competition
An annual international writing competition open worldwide. Stories must be previously unpublished and can be on any theme or subject. Closes 26 April.

Furphy Short Story Competition
Enter short fiction (to 5000 words) to the theme Australian Life in all its diversity. 1st Prize – $15,000, 2nd Prize – $3,000, 3rd Prize – $2,000 and publication. Closes 30 April.

The Best of Times Short Story Competition #35: Autumn 2023
Genre: Humorous short stories up to 2,500 words.
Prizes for first, second and third place.
Certificates for highly commended and commended stories.
All stories that receive a prize or certificate will be published in an e-book.
Entry fee $10 per story. 30 April.

Peter Cowan 600 word Short Story Competition
Open theme short story competition. Maximum 600 words. Open, Novice and Youth categories. Usually runs March–April.

2022 Prime Minister’s Literary Awards ceremony

May

World Voice Day 2023 project ‘Illuminate – Creative Writing/Visual Arts proposal
We invite your members to participate in our World Voice Day 2023 project ‘Illuminate’. By doing so, you will help us to shine a light on chronic, life changing voice disorders. 1 May 2023.

Questions Writing Prize
Part of the Future Leaders initiative, the prize recognises a young Australian writer aged 18-30. Fiction and non-fiction submissions 1,500-2,000 words, with a $2,000 prize. Closes 1 May.

Fall into Focus – residency program in Finland, Fall 2023
Residency program for writers, artists and researchers, Periods: 1 or 2 months (29 days/period).
When: September / October / November 2023. Where: Arteles Creative Center, Hämeenkyrö, Finland . Fall into Focus is an international residency program for writers, artists and researchers who want to concentrate on their writing, creative practice or research. Apply by 3 May.

Laura Literary Awards
Entries are now open. Open Prose, Poetry and Bush Poetry Winners Prize is $200. Entry Fee of $10 is required for open entries. There are separate sections for young adults, primary and junior primary age children. No fee is required for students. 12 May.

Catherine Martin Literary Award
Now invites young writers aged 10-18 to enter, with a short story, theme TBC. Part of the Penola Coonawarra Arts Festival. Cash prizes. Entries close 12 May.

2023 About Kids Book Short Story Prize
Celebrating excellence in short story writing by adults writing for children. Stories must be for children aged 8 to 11 years. The word limit is 1,500 words. 22 May.

The Inaugural About Kids Books Short Story Prize
The 2023 About Kids Book Short Story Prize celebrates excellence in Short Story writing by adults writing for children and fills a gap in the children’s international literature award landscape.
Stories must be for children aged 8 to 11 years. The word limit is 1,500 words. 22 May.

The Australian/Vogel’s Literary Award
One of Australia’s richest and the most prestigious award for an unpublished manuscript by a writer under the age of 35. Offering prize money of $20,000 plus publication by Allen & Unwin, the Award has launched the careers of some of Australia’s most successful writers, including Tim Winton, Kate Grenville, Gillian Mears, Brian Castro, Mandy Sayer and Andrew McGahan. Closing 31 May.

Davitt Awards
Sisters in Crime Australia’s Davitt Awards for the best crime and mystery books (and published in 2022) by Australian women, usually closes in May.

June

Kyogle Writers Festival Poetry Competition
With a new beginning for Kyogle Readers and Writers in 2023 ‘BEGINNING’ is the theme of this year’s Poetry Competition. Entries to the competition should, in some way, address this theme. Entries may be any style of poem, to a maximum of 35 lines, excluding the Title. Total prize money = $500. Judging will be by a panel of local poets. Winning entries will be announced at Literary Allsorts, presented by Kyogle Readers and Writers on Saturday June 3.

Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards
Australia’s largest and oldest poetry competition for primary and secondary school students. Submit poems with an optional theme ‘the winding road’. Cash prizes, trophies and prize packs, with several categories. *Entry fee. View PDF with details here. By June 30.

Queen Mary Wasafiri New Writing Prize
Exceptionally international in scope, the prize supports writers who have not yet published a book-length work, with no limits on age, gender, nationality, or background. The winners of each category (Fiction, Life Writing and Poetry) will receive a £1,000 cash prize and publication, and will be published in Wasafiri’s print magazine. Shortlisted writers will have their work published on Wasafiri’s website. 30 June.

Furious Fiction
On the first Friday of a new season (March, June, September, December), you are invited to submit a short story up to 500 words and be in the running to win $500.

July

TCK Publishing Poetry Contest
Each year’s prizewinner receives a $1,000 honorarium and publication of their poem on the TCK Publishing website. Any writer (regardless of who your publisher is or if your work has been previously published) may submit up to five poems totaling no more than 500 words for an entry fee of $5. June 30.

August

Sydney Hammond Memorial Short Story Writing Competition
Submit a short story to the theme ‘detour/s’. First prize $250AU Hawkeye Publishing gift voucher and anthology cover based on the winner’s story, top 40 are published. *Entry fee. Closes 1 August.

Aesthetica Creative Writing Award
An international literary prize that is a hotbed for new talent in poetry and short fiction. Each winner is awarded with £2,500 as well as publication. Closes 31 August.

Woollahra Digital Literary Award
Are you a writer publishing in digital form? The Woollahra Digital Literary Award supports innovation in Australian literature and celebrates the best contemporary, forward-looking writers and publishers. Award categories include Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry and Digital Innovation for a total prize pool of $7,500. All submissions must be published online in the first instance. Usually closes in August.

Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards
Enter now for your chance to contest the single most valuable literary prize in the country, with prizes for Fiction, Non-Fiction, Drama, Poetry, Award for Indigenous Writing and Writing for Young Adults – each receive $25,000. The winner of the Award for an Unpublished Manuscript receives $15,000. The winners of the six main suite categories go on to contest the overall Victorian Prize for Literature, worth an additional $100,000. Usually closes August.

Walkley Awards
The Walkley Awards for Excellence in Journalism recognise and reward the best in the craft. Usually closes in August.

Sisters in Crime’s Scarlet Stiletto Awards
Cash prizes for the best crime short stories by Australian women. Maximum length: 5000 words. $12,365 in prizes on offer. The 29th awards usually close August.

September

Furious Fiction
On the first Friday of a new season (March, June, September, December), you are invited to submit a short story up to 500 words and be in the running to win $500.

POEM FOREST
A free nature writing prize that breathes life back into the natural world that sustains us. Created by Red Room Poetry, in partnership with Wollongong City Council, POEM FOREST invites students and teachers to use their words to make positive climate action. For every nature poem received a tree is planted to help heal habitats and create a POEM FOREST for future generations. Since 2021, over 10,700 poem trees have been planted. All POEM FOREST Prize entries are published in our digital library and have the chance to win $5,000 in prizes, including $500 cash for each category, book packs, garden tours, plants, journals and more. Entries are now open, closing Friday 22 September 2023.

Story Unlikely open for submissions
Seeking short stories of all genres (fiction and nonfiction). 8 cents a word (cap payment at $150), though we do accept stories up to 10k in length. Reprints are 1 cent a word capped at $50. All published stories are professionally illustrated and no submission fee. Submission period runs from 2 January through 29 September.

Magabala Books Fellowship and Scholarship
The Fellowship, worth $10,000 is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander storytellers is intended to provide valuable time for a mid-career author to work on a current manuscript. The scholarships support professional development relating to writing, illustration and storytelling, and are open to both emerging and established Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander writers, artists, illustrators and storytellers. The next round of applications open in September 2023.

October

Woorilla Poetry Prize
Be part of a highly recognised poetry competition that has assisted poets for over 30 years. Enjoy the opportunity to win cash prizes and have your work published in multiple categories. Closes 1 October.

NSW Premier’s Literary Awards
The annual awards are the richest and longest running state-based literary awards in Australia, covering all genres of writing. Usually closes in October.

November

Miles Franklin Literary Award
One of Australia’s most prestigious literature prizes, the 2022 Miles Franklin accepts applications from publishers typically through October and November.

Neilma Sidney Short Story Prize ($6500)
Overland’s prize seeking short fiction of up to 3000 words themed around the notion of ‘travel’; open to all writers, nationally and internationally, at any stage of their writing career. The winning story will receive a $5000 first prize and be published in Overland’. Usually closes November.

Judith Wright Poetry Prize ($9000)
The Overland Judith Wright Poetry Prize for New and Emerging Poets seeks outstanding poetry by writers who have published no more than one collection of poems under their own name. It remains one of the richest prizes for emerging poets, and is open to poets anywhere in the world. The major prize is $6000, with a second prize of $2000 and a third prize of $1000. Usually closes November.

Nakata Brophy Short Fiction and Poetry Prize for Young Indigenous Writers
First place is a $5000 prize, publication in Overland’s print magazine, and a writing residency (of up to three months) at Trinity College. Usually closes November.

Commonwealth Short Story Prize
The prize is free to enter and open to any citizen of a Commonwealth country who is aged 18 and over. It is awarded for the best piece of unpublished short fiction (2,000–5,000 words). Regional winners each receive £2,500 and the opportunity to be published online by Granta magazine, and the overall winner receives £5,000. A free prize for unpublished short fiction, open to any citizen of a Commonwealth country. Translations or entries in languages other than English are also accepted. Usually closes November.

The Stella Prize
The Stella Prize awards the best book by an Australian woman, fiction, non-fiction, and poetry with $50,000. Nominations usually open November.

CBCA Book of the year awards
The annual Children’s Book Council of Australia awards aim to promote and celebrate quality literature for young Australians and support a wide range of Australian writers and illustrators of children’s books. Entries are open March–November.

December

Furious Fiction
On the first Friday of a new season (March, June, September, December), you are invited to submit a short story up to 500 words and be in the running to win $500.

Novelist Gail Jones wins the Fiction Award, Adelaide Festival Awards for Literature. Via State Library of South Australia.

HELPING WRITERS REALISE THEIR CREATIVE AND PROFESSIONAL DREAMS

Competitions and Opportunities

A guide to writing prizes, awards and competitions in 2023

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