Online courses

If you can read this webpage, then you have all you need to access our range of online courses at the Australian Writers’ Centre! We offer three kinds of online course:

Online LIVE: With these courses, you participate online from the comfort of your own home in a live Zoom video-based classroom. Your tutor and your classmates are right there with you in real time.

Online classroom: These courses begin on a set date, with an online tutor and other classmates learning at the same time. You’ll need around 3-4 hours per week, but those hours can be whenever and wherever you choose.

Online self-paced: These courses are ready to go ‘on demand’. You don’t have a tutor but you do get instant access and can revisit the content for up to 12 months.
 

Learn the foundations of compelling stories.

CREATIVE COURSES

Learn how to write feature articles.

FREELANCE COURSES

Master the art of professional business writing.

BUSINESS COURSES

The core creative writing path

Learn the foundations of compelling stories with these creative writing courses.

Creative Writing Stage 1

  • Discover the secrets to writing compelling fiction.
  • Develop characters, scenes, dialogue and more.
  • Learn the nuts and bolts of the art of writing.

Foundation

5-week online course
with tutor and feedback

$450

1 January 2024


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Writing Workout

  • Complete exercises to strengthen your writing muscles.
  • Receive tutor guidance on your fiction techniques.
  • Write, write and write!

Development

6 fortnights online LIVE
with tutor

$595

30 May 2023

Bookings close soon
Only a few places left

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Novel Writing Essentials

  • Write the first 20,000 words of your novel.
  • Become a stronger writer with group workshopping.
  • Give your opening chapters the best possible start.

Intermediate

10-week online course
with tutor and feedback

28 November 2023

Booked out
(New date available)

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Write Your Novel

  • Workshop your way to a completed draft.
  • Iron out structural flaws and master techniques.
  • Achieve your dream of writing a novel.

Advanced

$2450


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Edit Your Novel

  • Shape your story into its brilliant final form
  • Receive powerful editing techniques and guidance
  • Workshop your manuscript with experienced writers

Advanced

6-month online program
with tutor

$495 per month

7 March 2024


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Courses for kids and teens

Creative Writing Quest for Kids

  • Encourage your child's love of writing with this creative adventure.
  • Write a complete 800-word story.
  • Receive feedback from a bestselling author.

Online self-paced course
with tutor feedback

$245

START TODAY


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Teenage Creative Writers’ Program

  • Discover the key skills for creating compelling stories.
  • Receive feedback and guidance from an award-winning author.
  • Learn creative techniques that can be easily applied at school.

10-week online course
with tutor and feedback

$395

Starts this week

Bookings close 5pm AEST today

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Writing books for younger readers

Discover how to write for children of all ages.

Writing Picture Books

  • Create magical stories for the youngest of readers.
  • Discover the themes that kids (and publishers) adore.
  • Explore your creativity in a supportive environment.

5-week online course
with tutor and feedback

$450

1 January 2024


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Writing Children's Novels

  • Learn the key elements of a novel for children
  • Create believable characters and dialogue
  • Find the right voice to suit your reader

5-week online course
with tutor and feedback

$450

8 January 2024


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Writing Young Adult Fiction

  • Understand the YA readership and characters.
  • Develop your unique voice and story structure.
  • Receive expert feedback on your writing.

$495

13 September 2022


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Writing Chapter Books for 6-9 year olds

  • Discover how to create your own book series.
  • Understand the story themes that resonate.
  • Uncover the tricks to keep young readers hooked.

Online self-paced course
with tutor feedback

$295

17 January 2022


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Laugh Out Loud

  • Learn how to craft funny stories for kids.
  • Develop your own brand of humour.
  • Receive feedback from a bestselling author.

Online self-paced course
with tutor feedback

$295


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Writing Picture Books Masterclass

  • Learn how to structurally edit your manuscript.
  • Tighten your story's prose, patterning and rhythm.
  • Perfect your pitch before approaching publishers.

Online self-paced course
with tutor feedback

$345

7 August 2023


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Fiction Techniques

Enhance your skills with advanced literary techniques.

Romance Writing

  • Learn to write a romance novel readers will love.
  • Develop your ideas to suit the romance market.
  • Gain clarity on the best publishing route to take.

Online self-paced course

$345


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Historical Fiction

  • Develop your research skills and methods.
  • Create believable and historically accurate characters.
  • Learn how to craft a captivating story set in the past.

Online self-paced course

$245


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Short Story Essentials

  • Learn the secrets of compelling short fiction.
  • Create a gripping narrative with great pace.
  • Receive a personalised assessment on your 2500-word story!

Online self-paced course
with tutor feedback

$375

17 January 2022


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The Story Doctor

  • Learn to structurally edit your manuscript so it shines.
  • Discover how to refine your dialogue, descriptions and imagery.
  • Enjoy expert guidance from bestselling author Kate Forsyth.

5 evenings online LIVE
with tutor

$595

6 June 2022


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Fantasy, Science Fiction and More

  • Get advice on structuring your story across a series.
  • Create an original and believable world.
  • Immerse yourself in the art of "spec fic".

5 evenings online LIVE
with tutor

$495

13 February 2024


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History, Mystery and Magic

  • Learn how to write a successful cross-genre story.
  • Explore unique narrative patterns and structures.
  • Stir your readers' imagination with vivid storytelling.

5 evenings online LIVE
with tutor

31 January 2022

Booked out
(New date available)

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Crime and Thriller Writing

  • Increase your narrative tension and suspense.
  • Create intriguing characters that hook your reader.
  • Learn the essentials of this insanely popular genre.

5 evenings online LIVE
with tutor

$495

22 April 2024


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Plotting and Planning

  • Discover the 7 basic plots you need to know.
  • Turn a story idea into a well-structured plan.
  • Create a plot that keeps readers engrossed.

2 evenings online LIVE
with tutor

28 March 2022

Booked out
(New date available)

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Creative Non-fiction

  • Learn how to write page-turning true stories.
  • Master the art of creative non-fiction techniques.
  • Discover your unique and distinctive narrative voice.

Online self-paced course

$395


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Anatomy of a Crime: How to Write About Murder

  • Tips from #1 NY Times bestselling author Candice Fox.
  • Delve into the grisly side of fiction.
  • Bring your scenes to life with authentic crime details.

Online self-paced course

$245


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Fiction Essentials: CHARACTERS

  • Engage readers through your cast of characters.
  • Use character development to create narrative tension.
  • Complete exercises to cement your new skills.

Online self-paced course

$195


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Fiction Essentials: DIALOGUE

  • Discover how to write compelling conversations.
  • Learn how to use dialogue to drive your story forward.
  • Complete exercises to ensure your dialogue is authentic.

Online self-paced course

$195


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Fiction Essentials: GRAMMAR AND PUNCTUATION

  • Master the art of punctuating dialogue correctly.
  • Know how to avoid common formatting and style mistakes.
  • Complete exercises and quizzes to reinforce your skills.

Online self-paced course

$195


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Fiction Essentials: POINT OF VIEW

  • Master this vital skill in fiction writing.
  • Gain techniques to strengthen your narrative voice.
  • Complete exercises to solidify your storytelling.

Online self-paced course

$195


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Fiction Essentials: STRUCTURE

  • Dramatically improve the framework of your stories.
  • Develop techniques for effective pace and tension.
  • Discover practical methods to achieve a strong narrative arc.

Online self-paced course

$195


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Fiction Essentials: SCENES

  • Construct scenes that flow seamlessly through your story.
  • Craft vivid settings that evoke deep emotion.
  • Discover how to edit your scenes for maximum impact.

Online self-paced course

$195


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Cut, Shape, Polish

  • Gain editing skills that will improve your story.
  • Easily identify plot holes and structural issues.
  • Polish your manuscript into a publishable piece of work.

Online self-paced course

$295


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Publishing

Everything you need to know about getting your work published.

Inside Publishing

  • Discover the nuts and bolts of publishing.
  • Maximise your chances of getting a book deal.
  • Gain the insider knowledge you need for author success.

Online self-paced course

$185


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Your Audiobook Advantage

  • Be confident about the right audiobook options to choose as an author.
  • Add an additional revenue stream to your income as a writer.
  • Develop a clear plan for production of your audiobook.

$195


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Self-publish your Novel on Kindle

  • Ideal for authors who want a global readership.
  • Discover the critical elements of a professional ebook.
  • Learn the exact steps to sell internationally on Kindle.

Online self-paced course

$97


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Book Covers That Sell

  • Discover the 5 steps to a winning cover.
  • Learn the book cover rules for your genre.
  • Attract readers with the right fonts and imagery.

Online self-paced course

$85


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Successful Self-publishing: Print and Ebooks

  • A self-publishing framework for non-fiction writers.
  • Demystify the current self-publishing landscape.
  • Get professional guidance on book layout and design.

Online self-paced course

$245


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Writers' Toolkit

Add extra knowledge, industry insights and motivation.

Dare to Dream

  • Find and sustain your creative inspiration.
  • Become empowered to write freely in your own voice.
  • Learn from bestselling author Kate Forsyth.

4 evenings online LIVE
with tutor

1 August 2022

Booked out

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Presenting to Kids

  • Discover how to engage a live audience of young readers.
  • Enhance your career with paid talks and school visits.
  • Learn to adapt your presentations to suit different age groups.

Online self-paced course

$345


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Your Author Website

  • Discover what every author website needs.
  • Learn how to showcase your writing.
  • Create a blueprint for your author platform.

$ $ limited time offer


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2 Hours to Scrivener Power

  • Master Scrivener 3 – the must-have tool for authors.
  • Transform the way you research and write.
  • Discover author Natasha Lester's secrets to Scrivener success.

Online self-paced course

$97


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Make Time to Write

  • Features the popular Creative Writing 30-day Bootcamp!
  • Get strategies to fight procrastination.
  • A step-by-step guide for creating a writing routine.

Online self-paced course

$147


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Creative Writing 30-day Bootcamp

  • Create a daily writing routine.
  • Strengthen your creative muscles through regular use.
  • Smash out 10,000 words in just one month.

Online self-paced course

$97


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Reinvent Yourself

  • Learn how to become a writer with this motivational program.
  • Access tips, advice and strategies from successful writers.
  • Your step-by-step guide to change your life.

Online self-paced course

$97


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The core freelance writing path

Learn the foundations of compelling feature articles.

Freelance Writing Stage 1

  • Industry advice on writing for publications.
  • Techniques on structure, research, interviewing.
  • Find and pitch story ideas with confidence.

Foundation

5-week online course
with tutor and feedback

$450

1 January 2024


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Freelance Writing Masterclass Program

  • Further real-world mentoring.
  • Direct access to expert feedback/advice.
  • Sharpen your skills, fast-track success.

Advanced

Online community,
tutorials and mentoring

$65 per month.
12-month commitment


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Freelance writing – extra skills

Hone your techniques and explore an area of interest.

Opinion Writing

  • Learn how to craft opinion pieces for publications
  • Communicate your passion with a wider audience.
  • Receive personalised feedback on your writing.

Development

Online self-paced course
with tutor feedback

$395

To be announced


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Food Writing

  • Learn how to break into the industry.
  • How to write delicious reviews and recipes.
  • Combine your love of food and writing.

5 evenings online LIVE
with tutor

$495

29 April 2024


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Travel Writing

  • Write engaging travel content.
  • Tips on itineraries, photography, freebies.
  • Turn any place into a paid story.

5-week online course
with tutor and feedback

$450

Starts this week


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Profile Writing

  • Write compelling human stories.
  • Learn pacing, structure and style.
  • Valuable insights from a top profiler.

Online self-paced course

$175


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Content Writing

  • Create compelling content quickly.
  • Showcase specific expertise.
  • Engage readers with easy templates.

Online self-paced course

$245


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How to Write Media Releases

  • Learn to correctly structure releases.
  • Understand the key points to deliver.
  • Tips on maximising exposure and hit-rate.

Online self-paced course

$345


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The Business of Freelancing

  • Turn your feature writing into a business.
  • Tips on invoicing, tax and more.
  • How to be effective in quoting for jobs.

Online self-paced course

$147


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Copywriting

Learn the foundation skills to get started as a copywriter.

Copywriting Essentials

  • Write headlines and words that sell.
  • Take creative briefs and do research.
  • Earn money immediately from clients.

5-week online course
with tutor and feedback

$550

4 December 2023


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Copywriting – extra skills

Increase your copywriting services and knowledge.

SEO Copywriting

  • Write copy that Google loves.
  • Tips on making your words smarter.
  • Charge more as an expert.

5-week online course
with tutor and feedback

$550

5 February 2024


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How to Build a Successful Freelance Copywriting Business

  • Strategies for getting more clients.
  • How to fill your portfolio fast.
  • Position yourself as a specialist.

5-week online course
with tutor and feedback

$550

19 February 2024


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Copy Club

  • Receive exclusive tutorials, training and templates.
  • Meet like-minded people and expand your network.
  • Enjoy monthly motivation and a copywriting coach.

Online community,
tutorials and mentoring

$65 per month
12-month commitment


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UX Writing

  • Create seamless online user experiences.
  • Best practice app and web techniques.
  • Convert more customers and drive sales.

$345

26 February 2024


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Real Estate Copywriting

  • Unlock a reliable revenue stream.
  • Tips and templates on getting started.
  • Earn course cost back in just one job.

Online self-paced course

$195


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Email Marketing and Copywriting

  • Write high performing emails and newsletters that get results.
  • Learn the digital marketing fundamentals that underpin a successful email campaign.
  • Gain the skills to promote yourself as an expert email copywriter.

5-week online course
with tutor and feedback

$795

Starts this week

Bookings close soon

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Business writing fundamentals

Master the art of clear and professional business writing.

Plain English Business Writing

  • Understand ‘plain English’ principles to improve readability.
  • Discover common mistakes and how to avoid them.
  • Get templates to improve your reports, proposals, emails and proofing.

2 mornings online LIVE
with tutor

$345

13 February 2024


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Editing Essentials

  • How to edit business documents with ease.
  • Essential rules for punctuation, bullet lists and more.
  • Industry proofreading symbols and style guides.

2 mornings online LIVE
with tutor

$345

27 February 2024


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Professional Business Writing

  • Learn the 11 golden rules of business writing.
  • Explore the business writing DOs and DON’Ts.
  • Work smarter with practical tips and exercises.

Online self-paced course

$345


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Content Writing

  • Create compelling content quickly.
  • Showcase specific expertise.
  • Engage readers with easy templates.

Online self-paced course

$245


 See More

How to Write Media Releases

  • Learn to correctly structure releases.
  • Understand the key points to deliver.
  • Tips on maximising exposure and hit-rate.

Online self-paced course

$345


 See More

Write a Book That Showcases Your Expertise

  • A blueprint for building your own book.
  • How to position yourself as an expert.
  • The ideal way to use your book in your marketing.

Online self-paced course

$695


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Team Training

Group training in your workplace or in our online Zoom classroom.

Plain English Business Writing

  • Understand ‘plain English’ principles to improve readability.
  • Discover common mistakes and how to avoid them.
  • Get templates to improve your reports, proposals, emails and proofing.

Online live Zoom or at your workplace

 Request a quote

Team training


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Editing Essentials

  • How to edit business documents with ease.
  • Essential rules for punctuation, bullet lists and more.
  • Industry proofreading symbols and style guides.

Online live Zoom or at your workplace


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The Business Toolkit

Australian Business Style Guide

  • Get instant access to the online version of the book.
  • Search solutions quickly, save common conundrums, and get wordy peace of mind on the go.
  • Save time and ensure your writing follows a consistent professional editorial style.

$49

START TODAY


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Successful Self-publishing: Print and Ebooks

  • A self-publishing framework for non-fiction writers.
  • Demystify the current self-publishing landscape.
  • Get professional guidance on book layout and design.

Online self-paced course

$245


 See More