Writing Australia is celebrating its first anniversary and looking forward to appointing the country’s first National Poet Laureate in its second year.
Writing Australia Director Wenona Byrne said over the past year, the organisation, created to support a sustainable and connected literature sector, had invested in new programs, fostered national partnerships and created opportunities that helped Australian books reach readers at home and internationally.
Ms Byrne said the year ahead would see Writing Australia continue that momentum, with the appointment of Australia’s first National Poet Laureate in October and the announcement of the 2026 Prime Minister’s Literary Awards among its major initiatives.
“The Australian publishing industry is facing multiple challenges in a difficult economic climate,” she said.
“Writing Australia is strategically investing in a diverse and sustainable industry to support Australian writing.”
Ms Byrne said over the past 12 months Writing Australia had invested over $7m in the sector including, $2.63 million through three flagship national programs – the Australian Publishing and Promotion Fund, Literary Journals Capacity Building Fund and Writers’ Festival Author Travel Fund- supporting 43 organisations across Australia.
She said more than $1 million was provided in direct support to writers and small organisations through additional investment in Creative Australia programs.
“Our first year has been about investing in the people and organisations that make Australian literature possible.
“The year ahead is equally exciting. We have just commenced a major research project examining the economic value of the book industry (and) the upcoming appointment of Australia’s inaugural National Poet Laureate marks a defining moment for our literary culture.”
