The Australian Fiction Prize FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The opening date is 9:00am AEST Monday 30 March 2026. The closing date for entries is 5.00pm AET Monday 15 June 2026. The winner will be announced Monday 12 October 2026.
What type of works will be considered?
An original work of adult fiction between 75,000 and 100,000 words, not previously published in a commercial publication. It does not matter if you have previously published other works, but your entry must not have been published before.
Science fiction, young adult, poetry, plays, works for children and any kind of non-fiction are not eligible.
How many entries can I submit?
One entry per person.
Does the work have to be set in Australia?
No. The manuscript can be set anywhere, but the author must be of a resident of Australia. We want to find the next great Australian storyteller.
What will the Prize Winner win?
A publishing contract with HarperCollins to publish your work including an advance against royalties of AUD$15,000. If your title is shortlisted, you grant HarperCollins the right of first refusal in your work. See the T&Cs for more details.
How can I submit my entry?
To enter, entrants must:
- Write an original work of adult fiction of between 75,000 and 100,000 words, not previously published in a commercial publication (in PDF format, set up as an A4 double-spaced document in 12 pt Roman font with 3 cm margins and page numbers on each page). Please note: Science fiction, young adult, poetry, plays, works for children and any kind of non-fiction are not eligible.
- Your work must only include original material created by you and it must not infringe the copyright of any other person or entity;
- Write a short pitch of between one and three sentences;
- Write an original synopsis providing a brief summary of the plot, major characters, themes and settings of your work, of approximately 500 words;
- Write an original biography of yourself of approximately 200 words; and
- Submit your:
- Adult fiction work;
- Pitch;
- Synopsis; and
- Biography,
online at https://harpercollins-au.myshopify.com/pages/the-australian-fiction-prize/ by completing all required fields and by registering your details including your full name, postal address, email address, telephone number and literary agent, if you have one.
Once have submitted your entry, you will see an acknowledgement of submission.
Got a question?
If you have any questions or concerns related to The Australian Fiction Prize, please get in contact below!