Richell Prize for Emerging Writers: deadline approaching
The Richell Prize for Emerging Writers 2025 is nearing its submission deadline on 13 July 2025. This prize, established in memory of Hachette Australia’s CEO Matt Richell, offers unpublished writers of adult fiction and narrative non-fiction a chance to win $10,000 and a year-long mentorship with a Hachette publisher.
You submit the first three chapters of your manuscript, a synopsis, and a statement on how the prize would benefit your writing career. You don’t need a complete manuscript at the time of submission, so this is very accessible for emerging writers. Over the years, the prize has been instrumental in launching the careers of several authors, including Mandy Beaumont and Susannah Begbie. If you've been contemplating entering, now is the time to polish your submission and take that leap.
AWC Alumna Ali Berg releases new novel
Ali Berg, a graduate of the Australian Writers’ Centre, has released her latest novel, Love Overdue, co-authored with Michelle Kalus. This contemporary romance explores themes of first loves, second chances, and the unexpected twists life can bring.
We love seeing Ali go from strength to strength and, along with Michelle, they have established themselves as a duo to be reckoned with. Love Overdue is now available in bookstores and online retailers.
Find out more about Ali’s journey here.
Is this why you procrastinate?
If you've ever found yourself reorganising your bookshelf or deep-cleaning the kitchen instead of tackling that writing project, you're not alone. According to a recent article on ArtsHub, creative procrastination is a real phenomenon, distinct from mere laziness.
For creatives, procrastination often stems from perfectionism, fear of failure, or even fear of success. The work is personal, and the stakes feel high, making avoidance a form of self-protection. Traditional productivity hacks might not cut it here. Instead, understanding the unique psychological factors at play can help in developing strategies that support the creative process, turning procrastination into a tool rather than a hindrance. So next time you're caught in a cycle of delay, remember: it's not about being lazy; it's about navigating the complex landscape of creativity.
Government boosts support for writers and publishers
The Australian Government has announced a significant increase in funding for the nation's literary creators. Over $26 million is being distributed to authors, illustrators, publishers, and, for the first time, creators of audio and eBooks under the Public Lending Right (PLR) and Educational Lending Right (ELR) schemes.
These schemes compensate creators for the free use of their works in public and educational libraries. This year’s payments mark a $3.38 million increase from the previous year, benefiting over 18,000 recipients, including 1,400 first-time claimants.
Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival returns in July
The Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival is set to return from 16–18 July 2025 in Mackay, Queensland. Established 21 years ago, the festival is the largest youth literature event in regional Queensland, attracting over 7,000 students annually. This year’s program boasts over 80 events, including author talks, workshops, and performances. Keynote speaker Nedd Brockmann, known for his 4,000 km run across Australia to raise awareness for homelessness, will headline the DBI Literary Dinner. Other presenters include Amie Kaufman, Katherine Battersby, and the dynamic duo Kate and Jol Temple.
