JUNE 2025 |
01/06/2025 |
ACU Prize for Poetry Open to: Australian residents. Any International student currently studying at an Australian University may also enter Theme: Belonging Accepts: Poetry Size: 60 lines Entry Fee: $25 Prize: First: $10,000, Second: $5,000, Third: $3,000, Highly Commended: $750
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01/06/2025 |
Dymocks Beyond Words Creative Writing Competition Open to: Australian primary and secondary school students Theme: None * Accepts: Short Story - Primary School students Size: 500 - 1,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $2,000, Runner Up: $1,000, Shortlisted x 8: $500 * Accepts: Short Story - Secondary School students Size: 500 - 1,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $3,000, Runner Up: $1,000, Shortlisted x 8: $500 * REGIONAL AUSTRALIA WINNER: $1,000 GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY WINNER: $1,000 EAL/D WINNER: $1,000 FIRST NATIONS WINNER: $1,000 LGBTQIA+ WINNER: $1,000
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01/06/2025 |
Periscope Literary Paired Fiction Award UK COMPETITION Open to: Pair of writers in collaboration, both 18 years and over Theme: When the Smoke Clears Accepts: Fiction Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: £16 for up to 2 entries per pair Prizes: £400
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01/06/2025 |
Seniors Card Short Story Competition Open to: NSW Seniors Card holders Theme: Then and Now Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Top 100: Publication
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02/06/2025 |
The Big Issue Fiction Edition Open to: Writers based in Australia Theme: None Accepts: Fiction Size: 500 to 3,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: $500 for each author published
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06/06/2025 |
Make Your Own Storybook Competition Open to: Western Australian Students, PP to Year 8 Theme: None Accepts: Picture Books and Story Books (See website) Size: 5,000 words, Page size: A5 to A4 Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Three prizes awarded in each category: - Years PP to 2 - Picture Book - Years 3 to 4 - Picture Book - Years 5 to 6 - Picture Book - Years 7 to 8 - Picture Book - Years 3 to 4 - Story Book - Years 5 to 6 - Story Book - Years 7 to 8 - Story Book Students may work with a partner, maximum of two students per book
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08/06/2025 |
The Masters Review Best Emerging Writers US COMPETITION Open to: Emerging writers Theme: Open Accepts: Fiction and creative non-fiction Size: 8,000 words Entry Fee: $US 20 Prize x 10: $US 700
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10/06/2025 |
Michael Terence Publishing Short Story Competition UK COMPETITION Closing Date: EARLYBIRD: 10/03/2025, REGULAR: 10/06/2025 Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Short story – fiction or non-fiction Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: EARLYBIRD: £6, REGULAR: £9 Prizes: First: £1,000, Publication in MTP Anthology and Anthology Title based on the winning entry's title, Second: £500, Publication in the MTP Anthology, Third: £250, Publication in the MTP Anthology, Runners-up x 5: £50, Publication in the MTP Anthology
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13/06/2025 |
IEU QLD & NT Literary Competition Note: Limitation on entries per school: 10 in each student section, 5 in Open section Open to: Students in years 5 -12 and teachers from all schools across Queensland and from independent schools across the Northern Territory. Theme: None * Accepts: Years 11-12 1. Poem, 2, Short Story, 3. Non-fiction Prose Size: Poem: No limit, Short Story: 600-1,500 words, Non-fiction prose: 600 - 1,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $300, Second: $200, Third: $100 * Accepts: Years 9-10 1. Poem, 2, Short Story Size: Poem: No limit, Short Story: 500-1,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $150, Second: $100, Third: $75 * Accepts: Years 7-8 1. Poem, 2, Short Story Size: Poem: No limit, Short Story: 500-1,200 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $150, Second: $100, Third: $75 * Accepts: Years 5 - 6 1. Poem, 2, Short Story Size: Poem: No limit, Short Story: 400-800 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $150, Second: $100, Third: $75 * Accepts: Open: Staff: Short Story Size: 800-2,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $300, Second: $200, Third: $100
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14/06/2025 EXTENDED |
AWMA Writing Competition PROCEEDS TO YES, UNLIMITED! Open to: All Theme: Martial Arts * Accepts: Fiction & Non-fiction - 16 years and over Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $200 & 2-year digital subscription to Martial Arts Magazine (value $98), Second: $100 & 2-year digital subscription to Martial Arts Magazine (value $98), Third: $50 & 2-year digital subscription to Martial Arts Magazine (value $98) * Accepts: Fiction & Non-fiction - 10 to 15 years and over Size: 750 words Entry Fee: $5 Prizes: First: $100 & 2-year digital subscription to Martial Arts Magazine (value $98), Second: $50 & 2-year digital subscription to Martial Arts Magazine (value $98), Third: $25 & 2-year digital subscription to Martial Arts Magazine (value $98) * Accepts: Fiction & Non-fiction - 9 years and under Size: 750 words Entry Fee: $5 Prizes: First: $100 & 2-year digital subscription to Martial Arts Magazine (value $98), Second: $50 & 2-year digital subscription to Martial Arts Magazine (value $98), Third: $25 & 2-year digital subscription to Martial Arts Magazine (value $98) * LOCAL PRIZE: 6 x weeks free classes with Albury Wodonga Martial Arts The winner of this award, or a person that the winner elects, must be able to attend classes in either Wodonga or Beechworth.
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22/06/2025 |
Ros Spencer Poetry Prize Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 60 lines Entry Fee: $10, $20 for 2, $25 for 3, $30 for 4 Prize: First: $1,001, Second: $499, Highly Commended x 2, Commended x 2
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23/06/2025 |
Apollo Bay Wordfest Short Story Competition Open to: Residents of Victoria Theme: Real and Imagined * Accepts: Short Story - Adult/Open Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: $20 Prize: $500 * Accepts: Short Story - Secondary school students (under 19) Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $100 book voucher * Accepts: Short Story - Primary school students Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $50 book voucher
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23/06/2025 NEW LISTING |
FFF Competition Twenty-Eight UK COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Flash Fiction Size: 100 - 300 words Entry Fee: £3.95 Prizes: First: £150 & publication, Highly Commended: £70, Shortlisted: £60
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26/06/2025 |
Shore Scripts Feature Screenplay Contest US COMPETITION EARLY BIRD: 26/06/2025 REGULAR: 24/07/2025 FINAL: 28/08/2025 Open to: All Accepts: Scripts Size: 80 - 120 pages Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD: $USD 55, REGULAR: $USD 65, FINAL: $USD 75 (Plus $USD 15 to include Showdown Add-on) Prizes: First: $USD 5,000, Mentorship with A-List Filmmaker, Work with Writer Development Manager, Script circulated with industry roster, Industry mentorship, Guaranteed Meetings, Second: $USD 1,000, Work with Writer Development Manager, Script circulated with industry roster, Industry mentorship, Guaranteed Meetings, 10 finalists: Work with Writer Development Manager, Script circulated with industry roster, Industry mentorship, 5 Genre Winners: Guaranteed Genres meeting, Work with Writer Development Manager, Script circulated with industry roster TOP Comedy, Drama, Horror, Sci-Fi & Thriller Script: Genre Industry meetings Showdown Add-on: entry to be considered for the Paid Option Agreement with Showdown Productions
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27/06/2025 |
Friends of Paynesville Library Short Story Competition Open to: Over 18 years of age Theme: Open Accepts: Short Story Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: Not specified
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30/06/2025 |
AAWP Writing Prizes * AAWP / UWRF Poetry Prize for Emerging Writers Open to: Emerging writers Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines for lineated poetry, 400 words for prose poetry and hybrid forms Entry Fee: $20 Prize: Ticket to UWRF, accommodation during the festival, one year membership to AAWP, and fully subsidised fees to attend the annual conference, consideration for publication by Meniscus * Sudden Writing Prize Open to: Emerging writers under 25 years of age Theme: None Accepts: Creative works Size: Prose: 400 words, Poetry: 40 lines, Prose Poems: 200 words Entry Fee: $5 Prize: $500, publication on Express Media website, Voiceworks subscription, one year membership to AAWP * AAWP / Westerly Magazine Life Writing Prize Open to: All Theme: Life writing Accepts: Any form associated with Life Writing Size: 3,500 words Entry Fee: $20 Prize: $500, one year subscription to Westerly & Conference fees to attend the annual AAWP conference * AAWP and SW Novella Prize Open to: Members of AAWP Theme: None Accepts: Prose or verse Size: : 50 lines for poetry or 5,000 words for prose, Synopsis: 500 words Entry Fee: $20 Prize: $500 and fully subsidised fees to attend the annual conference * ‘Chapter One’ The AAWP Publication Pathway for Emerging Writers Open to: Emerging writers (see website for definition) AND also a member of AAWP Theme: None Accepts: Poetry collection, literary novel, short story collection or a hybrid work Size: First chapter: 50 lines for poetry or 5,000 words for prose, Synopsis: 500 words Total work: Prose: at least 40,000 words, Poetry: at least 40 pages Entry Fee: $20 Prize: $500, letter of recommendation to Western Australia Publishing , Conference fees to attend the annual AAWP conference * AAWP - UWRF Translators' Prize Open to: Not mentioned Theme: None Accepts: Poetry and Prose Size: Poetry: 30 lines, Prose: 3,000 words Entry Fee: $20 Prize: Ticket to UWRF, accommodation during the festival , one year membership to AAWP and fully subsidised fees to attend the annual conference * AAWP / UWRF Short Story Prize for Emerging Writers Open to: Emerging writers Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: $20 Prize: Ticket to UWRF, accommodation during the festival, one year membership to AAWP, and fully subsidised fees to attend the annual conference, consideration for publication by Meniscus
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30/06/2025 |
Anthology Poetry Award IRISH COMPETITION Closing Date: EARLY BIRD: 30/06/2025 REGULAR: 31/10/2025 Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD: €15, REGULAR: €18 Prizes: First: €1,000, Second: €250, Third: €150
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30/06/2025 |
Armadale Young Writers' Awards Open to: Students in Years 3 to 12 and reside or attend school in the City of Armadale Theme: Open * Accepts: Prose - Years 3 & 4 Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $200, Second: $150, Third: $100 * Accepts: Prose - Years 5 & 6 Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $200, Second: $150, Third: $100 * Accepts: Prose - Years 7 & 8 Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $200, Second: $150, Third: $100 * Accepts: Prose - Years 9 & 10 Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $200, Second: $150, Third: $100 * Accepts: Prose - Years 11 & 12 Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $200, Second: $150, Third: $100 * BEST OVERALL: $50 gift card
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30/06/2025 |
Bundyi Writing Prize Open to: Emerging Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander writer Theme: Open Accepts: Adult Fiction Size: Total files submitted: 10MB Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: $10,000, manuscript development with a First nations editor, potential publishing contract
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30/06/2025 |
Dorothea Mackeller Poetry Awards Open to: School Students (K – Yr 12) enrolled in Australian education facilities Theme: Optional theme: All the Beautiful Things * Accepts: Lower Primary (Years K - 3) Poetry Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: Individual (where home-schooled or school not taking part): $20 for up to 3 poems, School Entry up to 30 entries: $30, School Entry over 30 entries: $60, School Entry over 100 entries: $80 Prize: First: $300, trophy & prize pack, Runner-up: $150 & prize pack * Accepts: Upper Primary (Years 4 - 6. Year 7 in SA) Poetry Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: Individual (where home-schooled or school not taking part): $20 for up to 3 poems, School Entry up to 30 entries: $30, School Entry over 30 entries: $60, School Entry over 100 entries: $80 Prize: First: $400, trophy & prize pack, Runner-up: $200 & prize pack * Accepts: Assisted Learning Primary Poetry Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: Individual (where home-schooled or school not taking part): $20 for up to 3 poems, School Entry up to 30 entries: $30, School Entry over 30 entries: $60, School Entry over 100 entries: $80 Prize: First: $400, trophy & prize pack, Runner-up: $200 & prize pack * Accepts: Junior Secondary (Years 7 - 9) Poetry Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: Individual (where home-schooled or school not taking part): $20 for up to 3 poems, School Entry up to 30 entries: $30, School Entry over 30 entries: $60, School Entry over 100 entries: $80 Prize: First: $500, trophy & prize pack, Runner-up: $300 & prize pack * Accepts: Senior Secondary (Years 10 - 12) Poetry Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: Individual (where home-schooled or school not taking part): $20 for up to 3 poems, School Entry up to 30 entries: $30, School Entry over 30 entries: $60, School Entry over 100 entries: $80 Prize: First: $500, trophy & prize pack, Runner-up: $300 & prize pack * Accepts: Assisted Learning Secondary Poetry Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: Individual (where home-schooled or school not taking part): $20 for up to 3 poems, School Entry up to 30 entries: $30, School Entry over 30 entries: $60, School Entry over 100 entries: $80 Prize: First: $500, trophy & prize pack, Runner-up: $300 & prize pack * DAVID MAHER AWARD (Primary only): $300, trophy & prize pack KURRUMBEDE AWARD (Entries from a school within 100km of Gunnedah): PRIMARY SCHOOL AWARD: $250, trophy & prize pack SECONDARY SCHOOL AWARD: $250, trophy & prize pack SCHOOLS’ AWARD: PRIMARY SCHOOL: $1,000, trophy & prize pack SECONDARY SCHOOL: $1,000, trophy & prize pack
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30/06/2025 |
Flash 500 Flash Fiction Competition Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Flash Fiction Size: 500 words Entry Fee: £5 for one story, £8 for 2, £11 for 3, £14 for 4 Prize:First: £300, Second: £200, Third: £100
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30/06/2025 |
Geography Writing Competition Open to: All Theme: Set in Queensland on the significance of the environment in human life Accepts: Fiction Size: 500 words Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $300, Second: $150. Third: 1 year membership to the Queensland Writers Centre
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30/06/2025 |
Henry Savery National Short Story Award Open to: Australian residents Theme: Open Accepts: Short Story Size: 2,500 words Entry Fee: $5 Prizes: First: $400, Second: $100
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30/06/2025 |
Heroines Women's Writing Prize Open to: Women writers Theme: Witchcraft (Focus on lost women's history, untold stories and reimagined myths, fairy tales, folklore or legends, or speculative fiction) Accepts: Poetry & Short Fictions Size: Poetry: 3 pages, Fiction: 2,500 words Entry Fee: $15 Prize: $500
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30/06/2025 NEW LISTING |
Knox Write Now Open to: Writers aged 10 to 18 years, who live, study, work or play withing the municipality of Knox Theme: None * Accepts: Short Story - 10 to 12 years old Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Publication * Accepts: Short Story - 13 to 15 years old Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Publication * Accepts: Short Story - 16 to 18 years old Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Publication
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30/06/2025 |
Little Stories, Big Ideas Open to: Australian Secondary-school aged students Theme: Friction * Accepts: Creative Writing - Years 7 to 9 Size: 100 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Writing Masterclass, STARTER+ wen hosting package and domain name, 1 year Express Media Membership & Voiceworks subscription * Accepts: Creative Writing - Years 10 to 12 Size: 100 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Writing Masterclass, STARTER+ wen hosting package and domain name, 1 year Express Media Membership & Voiceworks subscription
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30/06/2025 |
Mornington Peninsula Mayor's Short Story Writing Awards Open to: Residents of the Mornington Peninsula Shire Theme: None * Accepts: Short Story - 8 to 12 years old Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $500 and book store voucher * Accepts: Short Story - 13 to 17 years old Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $500 and book store voucher * Accepts: Short Story - 18 years and over Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $1,000, book store voucher and two-week Police Point Artist Residency
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30/06/2025 |
Poetry London Prize UK COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: £10 (£5 for subscribers) (Limited free entries for writers on low incomes) Prize: First: £5,000, Second: £2,000, Third: £1,000
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30/06/2025 |
Positive Words Mini Competition Open to: All Theme: Contains the word: Train Accepts: Short Story or Poetry Size: 100 words or 10 lines Entry Fee: $3 in unused stamps Prize: Six months subscription to Positive Words
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30/06/2025 |
Scribes Writers "Poetic License" Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Traditional Verse Size: 60 lines Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $200, Second: $100, Third: $50, Highly Commended & Commended: Certificate
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30/06/2025 |
Southword Creative Non-Fiction Award IRISH COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Essay / Memoir Size: 4,000 words Entry Fee: €20 Prize: First: €1,000 & publication in Southword, Second: €400& publication in Southword
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30/06/2025 |
TCK Publishing Poetry Awards Contest US COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 500 words Entry Fee: US$ 5 Prize: US$ 1,000
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30/06/2055 NEW LISTING |
The Grieve Project Open to: Australian citizens or permanent residents of Australia, 18 years and over Theme: Experiences of grief and loss * Accepts: Prose Size: 500 words Entry Fee: $25.85 ($22 for members) * Accepts: Poetry Size: 36 lines Entry Fee: $25.85 ($22 for members) * Accepts: Still image/artwork Size: One image Entry Fee: $25.85 ($22 for members) * Accepts: Video Size: 5 minutes Entry Fee: $25.85 ($22 for members) * Accepts: Audio Size: 5 minutes Entry Fee: $25.85 ($22 for members) * PRIZES: See website
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30/06/2025 |
The Henshaw Short Story Competition UK COMPETITION PROCEEDS ARE USED TO PURCHASE BOOKS OR OTHER ESSENTIALS FOR A SELECTED SCHOOL Open to: All over 16 Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: £6, Optional Feedback: £14 Prizes: First: £200, Second: £100, Third: £50
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30/06/2025 |
The Hope Prize ALL ROYALITIES FROM THE ANTHOLOGY TO BE DONATED TO CAMFED (The Campaign for Female Education) EARLY BIRD: 30/06/2025 REGULAR: 31/10/2025 Open to: Over 18 Theme: Hope, courage and resilience as experienced or imagined by you Accepts: Short Story Size: 5,000 words Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD: $20, REGULAR: $30 (limited fee-free places for writers experiencing hardship) Prizes: First: $10,000
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30/06/2055 NEW LISTING |
The Letter Review Prize US COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None * Accepts: Short Fiction Size: 5,000 words Entry Fee: $US 20, additional entries: $US 10 Prize: $US 1,000 Prize pool * Accepts: Poetry Size: 70 lines Entry Fee: $US 15, additional entries: $US 10 Prize: $US 1,000 Prize pool * Accepts: Nonfiction Size: 5,000 words Entry Fee: $US 20, additional entries: $US 10 Prize: $US 1,000 Prize pool * Accepts: Unpublished Book Size: Prose: First 5,000 words, Poetry: First 15 pages, Total size: Novels: minimum 45,000 words, Novellas: 25,000 – 45,000 words, Short Story Collections: minimum 25,000 words, Nonfiction: minimum 40,000 words. Poetry: minimum 20 pages (with some flexibility) Entry Fee: $US 25, additional entries: $US 15 Prize: $US 1,000 Prize pool
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30/06/2025 |
The Moth International Short Story Prize IRISH COMPETITION Open to: Over 16 Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: €15 Prize: First: €3,000, Second: a week-long writing retreat at Circle of Misse in France (plus travel stipend), Third: €1,000
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30/06/2025 |
The Plaza Audio Poetry Prize UK COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 4 minutes Entry Fee: £12 (£9 for subsequent entries) - can apply for free entry under Bursary Scheme Prizes: First: £1,000, Second: £300, Third: £100
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30/06/2025 |
The Queen Mary Wasafiri New Writing Prize UK COMPETITION Open to: Writers who have not published a book-length work of fiction, life-writing or poetry (excluding self-published works or poetry chapbooks) Theme: None * Accepts: Poetry (up to 3 poems = a single entry) Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: £12, £16 for 2, £6 for a subsidised entry Prize: First: £1,000 & publication * Accepts: Fiction Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: £12, £16 for 2, £6 for a subsidised entry Prize: First: £1,000 & publication * Accepts: Life Writing Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: £12, £16 for 2, £6 for a subsidised entry Prize: First: £1,000 & publication
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30/06/2025 |
To Hull and Back Competition UK COMPETITION Closing Date: EARLY BIRD: 31/03/2025 REGULAR: 30/06/2025 Open to: All Theme: Humorous Accepts: Short Story Size: 2,500 words Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD: £10, £17 for 2, £20 for 3 REGULAR: £12, £20 for 2, £24 for 3 Prize: First: £1,000, your face on the cover of the anthology, a trip to Hull on a Harley Davidson if they wish, Second: £200, Third: £100, 3 x Highly Commended: £70, 14 x Shortlisted: £35
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30/06/2025 |
Wasafiri Essay Prize UK COMPETITION Open to: PhD candidates and early career researchers Theme: On a subject within the field of international contemporary literature published since 1965 Accepts: Essay Size: 6,000 - 9,000 words (including citations but excluding works-cited list) Entry Fee: Nil Prize: £250, mentoring conversation with an academic on the editorial board, annual print and digital subscription to Wasafiri, publication
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30/06/2025 |
Wells Festival of Literature Competition UK COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: Open * Accepts: Poetry Size: 35 lines Entry Fee: £6 Prizes: First: £1,000, Second: £500, Third: £250, Local Prize: £100 * Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,000 - 2,000 words Entry Fee: £6 Prizes: First: £750, Second: £300, Third: £200, Local Prize: £100 * Accepts: A Book for Children (age 7 and up) Size: First two chapters or 20 pages, whichever is shortest, plus a synopsis of up to 2 pages (Shortlisted entrants may be asked for complete manuscript) Entry Fee: £6 Prizes: First: £750, Second: £300, Third: £200, Local Prize: £100 * Accepts: Young Poets (16 - 22 years old) Size: 35 lines Entry Fee: £3 Prizes: First: £200 & membership to The Poetry Society, Second: £150, Third: £100
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30/06/2025 |
Wyndham Writing Awards Open to: Residents of Victoria 18+ Theme: None * Accepts: Short Story Size: 1500-3000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $1,000, Local Encouragement Award: $800 * Accepts: Poetry Size: 60 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $500, Local Encouragement Award: $400 * Accepts: Flash Fiction Size: 100-600 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $500, Local Encouragement Award: $400
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JULY 2025 |
02/07/2025 |
Write Around the Murray Short Story Competition Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: $10 Prize: First: $1,000, Second: $200 book voucher, Third: $100 book voucher
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04/07/2025 |
Randolph Stow Young Writers Award Open to: Students in years 3 - 12 studying in the Midwest and Gascoyne Regions, Western Australia Theme: None * Accepts: Lower Primary - Year 3 & 4 - Prose Size: 1,200 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Not specified * Accepts: Lower Primary - Year 3 & 4 - Poetry Size: No limit Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Not specified * Accepts: Upper Primary - Year 5 & 6 - Prose Size: 1,200 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Not specified * Accepts: Upper Primary - Year 5 & 6 - Poetry Size: No limit Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Not specified * Accepts: Lower Secondary - Year 7 & 8 - Prose Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Not specified * Accepts: Lower Secondary - Year 7 & 8 - Poetry Size: No limit Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Not specified * Accepts: Middle Secondary - Year 9 & 10 - Prose Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Not specified * Accepts: Middle Secondary - Year 9 & 10 - Poetry Size: No limit Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Not specified * Accepts: Upper Secondary - Year 11 & 12 - Prose Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Not specified * Accepts: Upper Secondary - Year 11 & 12 - Poetry Size: No limit Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Not specified
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04/07/2025 |
The Eden School Prize Open to: Years 8 to 10 students attending a South Australian government school Theme: "How can volunteering and ‘being of service’ make the world a better and happier place?” Accepts: Essay Size: 600 - 800 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $1,250, Second: $750, Third: $500
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07/07/2025 NEW LISTING |
Canberra Youth Theatre's Emerging Playwright Commission Open to: Emerging writer, Australian citizen or permanent resident, aged under 35 and over 16 Theme: Suitable to be performed by at least 8 actors aged between 7 and 25 Accepts: Play Size: Minimum 1 hour, minimum 8 characters as an ensemble Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $17,400 for development of the script, Two finalists: $1,500
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07/07/2025 |
Ledbury Poetry Festival Competition UK COMPETITION Open to: All aged 18 years and over Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: £6 Prize: First: £1,000 & a week’s poetry course, Second: £500, Third: £250
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11/07/2025 |
Melton City Libraries Short Story Competition Open to: People who live, work or study in the City of Melton or hold a current Melton City Libraries membership Theme: None * Accepts: Short Story - Junior A - Prep to Year 3 Size: 1,500 words or 5 minutes to experience Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $300, Second: $200, Third: $100 * Accepts: Short Story - Junior B - Year 4 to 6 Size: 1,500 words or 5 minutes to experience Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $300, Second: $200, Third: $100 * Accepts: Short Story - Teen - Year 7 to 12 Size: 1,500 words or 5 minutes to experience Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $300, Second: $200, Third: $100 * Accepts: Short Story - Adult Size: 3,000 words or 5 minutes to experience Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $750, Second: $500, Third: $250
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13/07/2025 NEW LISTING |
The Richell Prize for Emerging Writers Open to: Unpublished Australian citizens, permanent residents or on long-term visas for study or work – must be able to undertake the 12 month residency in Australia Theme: Adult Fiction and Adult narrative non-fiction Accepts: Fiction and narrative non-fiction Size: First three chapters (Max 20,000 words), 1 page synopsis, chapter breakdown (no more than 2 pages), author’s statement (750 words) Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $10,000 and Hachette Australia’s 12 month mentorship program
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14/07/2025 |
My Brother Jack Awards Open to: People who live, work or study in the City of Glen Eira Theme: None * Accepts: Short Story - Open Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $800, Second: $600, Third: $400 * Accepts: Short Story – Senior Secondary (Years 10 – 12) Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $500 gift voucher * Accepts: Short Story – Junior Secondary (Years 7 – 9) Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $400 gift voucher * Accepts: Short Story – Senior Primary (Years 4 – 6) Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $300 gift voucher * Accepts: Short Story – Junior Primary (Foundation – Year 3) Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $200 gift voucher * Accepts: Poetry - Open Size: 60 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $800, Second: $600, Third: $400 * Accepts: Poetry – Senior Secondary (Years 10 – 12) Size: 30 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $500 gift voucher * Accepts: Poetry – Junior Secondary (Years 7 – 9) Size: 10 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $400 gift voucher * Accepts: Poetry – Senior Primary (Years 4 – 6) Size: 10 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $300 gift voucher * Accepts: Poetry – Junior Primary (Foundation – Year 3) Size: 10 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $200 gift voucher
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15/07/2025 |
E.M. Fletcher Writing Prize Open to: Residents of Australia, over 18 years of age Theme: Family history/genealogy theme Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,500 - 2,000 words Entry Fee: $30 ($20 for members) Prize: First: $1,000, Runner Up: $500, Rosemary McKenzie Member Prize: $100
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25/07/2025 |
Barry Young River of Stories Open to: Students must reside within a 150k radius of Albury/Wodonga Theme: Adventure * Accepts: Short Story - Students: Years 3 - 4 Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $50 & $300 for school library, Runner-up: $25 book voucher * Accepts: Short Story - Students: Years 5 - 6 Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $50 & $300 for school library, Runner-up: $25 book voucher * Accepts: Short Story - Students: Years 7 - 8 Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 & $300 for school library, Runner-up: $50 book voucher * Accepts: Short Story - Students: Years 9 - 10 Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 & $300 for school library, Runner-up: $50 book voucher * Accepts: Short Story - Students: Years 11 - 12 Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 & $300 for school library, Runner-up: $50 book voucher * Accepts: Poetry - Students: Years 3 - 4 Size: No limit Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $50 & $300 for school library, Runner-up: $25 book voucher * Accepts: Poetry - Students: Years 5 - 6 Size: No limit Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $50 & $300 for school library, Runner-up: $25 book voucher * Accepts: Poetry - Students: Years 7 - 8 Size: No limit Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 & $300 for school library, Runner-up: $50 book voucher * Accepts: Poetry - Students: Years 9 - 10 Size: No limit Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 & $300 for school library, Runner-up: $50 book voucher * Accepts: Poetry - Students: Years 11 - 12 Size: No limit Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 & $300 for school library, Runner-up: $50 book voucher * BEST PRIMARY SCHOOL ENTRANT - Poetry: $250 BEST PRIMARY SCHOOL ENTRANT – Short Story: $250 BEST HIGH SCHOOL ENTRANT - Poetry: $250 BEST HIGH SCHOOL ENTRANT – Short Story: $250
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25/07/2025 REGISTRATION NEW LISTING |
Not Quite Write Prize NOTE: Prompts are emailed out at midday 25/07/2025 with competition closing at midnight 27/07/2025 Open to: All Theme: 3 prompts will be emailed consisting of a word prompt, an action prompt and an anti-prompt Accepts: Flash Fiction Size: 500 words Entry Fee: $35 (Critique Package: $125, Daredevil Package: $250) Prizes: First: $1,500 & trophy, Second: $1,000, Third: $500, Fourth: $350, Fifth: $250, Sixth: $200, Wildcard x 2: $100
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27/07/2025 |
Farrells Bookshop Kids' Story Writing Competition Open to: Residents of Mornington Peninsula Theme: Include: "As I opened the letter, a ticket fell out ..." * Accepts: Short Story / Picture Story / Poetry - Lower Primary - Prep to Year 2 Size: 1,000 words (2 pages) Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Farrells book vouchers * Accepts: Short Story / Picture Story / Poetry - Middle Primary - Years 3 to 4 Size: 1,000 words (2 pages) Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Farrells book vouchers * Accepts: Short Story / Picture Story / Poetry - Upper Primary - Years 5 to 6 Size: 1,000 words (2 pages) Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Farrells book vouchers * Accepts: Short Story / Picture Story / Poetry - Lower Secondary - Years 7 to 9 Size: 1,500 words (3 pages) Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Farrells book vouchers * Accepts: Short Story / Picture Story / Poetry - Upper Secondary - Years 10 to 12 Size: 1,500 words (3 pages) Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Farrells book vouchers
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28/07/2025 NEW LISTING |
Young Tasmanian Writers' Prize Open to: Tasmanian students enrolled in Year 7 to 12 at schools that are current members of TATE or who are home schooled * Accepts: Year 10 - 12: Short Fiction Theme: Choose one of the following themes: Connect, Interconnect, Disconnect, Reconnect Size: 800 - 1,500 words Entry Fee: $8 Prizes: First: $300 & publication, Runner up x 2: $30 Fullers Bookshop voucher. Jane Franklin Prose Award: $200 * Accepts: Year 7 - 9: Short Fiction Theme: Choose one of the following to play a key role in your story: City, Suburb, Town, Country Size: 700 - 1,000 words Entry Fee: $8 Prizes: First: $200, Runner up x 2: $30 Fullers Bookshop voucher, Jane Franklin Prose Award: $100
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30/07/2025 NEW LISTING |
Monash WordFest Short Story Writing Competition Open to: Reside, work or study in the City of Monash, or be a member of the Monash Public Library Service Theme: None * Accepts: Category A: 12 - 14 years: Short Story Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $300, Second: $150, Third: $100 * Accepts: Category B: 15 - 17 years: Short Story Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $500, Second: $250, Third: $150 * Accepts: Category C: Adult: Short Story Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $700, Second: $350, Third: $250
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31/07/2025 |
Anthology Short Story Award IRISH COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: €18 Prizes: First: €1,000 & one year subscription to Anthology Magazine, Second: €250, Third: €150
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31/07/2025 |
Fiction Factory Poetry Competition UK COMPETITON Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: £5, £9 for 2, £12 for 3 (£20 for optional assessment) Prizes: First : £100 and feedback on 5 poems, hour Zoom call with a judge, Short-listed x 5: Supportive critique
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31/07/2025 NEW LISTING |
Creative Writing Ink Short Story Competition UK COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: £12 Prizes: First: £1,000, a free creative writing course of the winner's choice and publication, Runners-up x 2: £200
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31/07/2025 |
Positive Words Mini Competition Open to: All Theme: Contains the word: Under Accepts: Short Story or Poetry Size: 100 words or 10 lines Entry Fee: $3 in unused stamps Prize: Six months subscription to Positive Words
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31/07/2025 NEW LISTING |
Rose Frankcombe Short Story Award Open to: Australian Writers Theme: Challenge Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: $15, $20 for 2 Prizes: First: $500, Second: $250, Third: $100, Highly Commended: Certificate
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31/07/2025 |
Seán Ó Faoláin International Short Story Competition IRISH COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: €19 Prizes: First: €2,000, featured reading at the Cork International Short Story Festival (with 4-night hotel stay and full board), publication, Second: €500, publication, Runners-up x 4: €400, publication
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31/07/2025 |
Short Stories Unlimited Poetry Competition - Fresh Water Open to: All Theme: Fresh Water Accepts: Poetry Size: No limit (but use common sense) Entry Fee: $5 Prizes: First: $100 & copy of ebook, Second: $50 & copy of ebook, Third: $25 & copy of ebook, Highly commended x 2: $10 & copy of ebook
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31/07/2025 |
Short Stories Unlimited Short Story Competition - Fresh Water Open to: All Theme: Fresh Water Accepts: Short Story Size: 5,000 words Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $200 & copy of anthology, Second: $100 & copy of anthology, Third: $50 & copy of anthology, Highly commended x 2: $20 & copy of anthology
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31/07/2025 |
Stories of Life Open to: All Theme: Autobiographical or biographical, about an aspect of Christian faith * Accepts: Short Story - Open Size: 500 words Entry Fee: $10, Nil for under 18 Prize: First: $300, $100 Omega Writers voucher & one-year Omega Writers membership, Second: $200 & one-year Omega Writers membership, Third: $100 & $50 Omega discount coupon, Youth Award: $100 * Accepts: Short Story - Open Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: $10, Nil for under 18 Prize: First: $300, $100 Omega Writers voucher & one-year Omega Writers membership, Second: $200 & one-year Omega Writers membership, Third: $100 & $50 Omega discount coupon, Youth Award: $100
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31/07/2025 |
The Keith MacNider Poetry Prize Open to: Poets over 18 years of age who live in Australia or New Zealand Theme: Our Place in the Natural World Accepts: Poetry Size: 30 lines Entry Fee: $10, or $20 for 3 Prizes: First: $800, Second: $400, Third: $250
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31/07/2025 |
The Plaza Fantasy / Sci-Fi Prize UK COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: Fantasy/Sci-Fi Accepts: Short Story Size: 5,000 words Entry Fee: £30 (£20 for subsequent entries) - can apply for free entry under Bursary Scheme Prizes: First: £3000 and tutorial with Michael Sullivan in a luxury villa in France, Second: £300, Third: £100
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31/07/2025 NEW LISTING |
The Silver Gull Play Award Open to: Residents of NSW or ACT, over the age of 18 as of 1 Jan 2025 Theme: Plays with a purpose Accepts: Play Size: at least 60 minutes Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $5,000, Shortlisted writers: $2,000 shared
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31/07/2025 |
Turtle Publishing NextGen YA Competition Open to: Aged 13 and above Theme: Young Adult fiction Accepts: Short Story / Prequel to exisitng manuscript / First chapter of an upcoming novel Size: 1,500 - 3,000 words Entry Fee: $45, One free entry for under 18s ($55 for optional assessment) Prize: Up to 20 winners: Professional developmental edit, copy/line edit. publication
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31/07/2025 NEW LISTING |
What's Your Story? * SHORT STORY Open to: Victorian Residents over the age of 18 years Theme: None Accepts: Short story Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $500 * POETRY Open to: Victorian Residents over the age of 18 years Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $500 * CREATIVE STORY WRITING - 5 -8 Open to: Students aged 5 to 8 who live or go to school in Stonnington Theme: None Accepts: Short story Size: 300 - 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $100 book voucher * CREATIVE STORY WRITING - 9 -12 Open to: Students aged 9 to 12 who live or go to school in Stonnington Theme: None Accepts: Short story Size: 500 - 750 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $200 book voucher * CREATIVE STORY WRITING - 13 -17 Open to: Students aged 13 to 17 who live or go to school in Stonnington Theme: None Accepts: Short story Size: 750 - 900 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $300 book voucher
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AUGUST 2025 |
01/08/2025 |
Sydney Hammond Memorial Short Story Writing Competition Open to: All Theme: Lost and Found Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: $18.50 Prize: First: Ticket to Children and Young Adult Conference (value $410), $200, Anthology cover based on winning story, Second & Third: year membership to Queensland Writers Centre ($79)
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08/08/2025 NEW LISTING |
Frank MacDonald Memorial Prize Open to: Tasmanian Year 9 Students Theme: Respond to one of these questions: 1. Evaluate Tasmania's contribution to the Great War (1914-18) on both the home and battle front. Consider incorporating the stories of local soldiers and/or home front activities in your analysis 2. Every April, Australian and New Zealanders pause to remember the Anzacs landing at Gallipoli. Is there another event from the Gallipoli Campaign that is equally deserving of commemoration? Explain your choice with reference to primary source evidence. Accepts: Essay or Digital/Video/Audio Presentation Size: Essay: 1,500 words, Presentation: 10 minutes Entry Fee: Nil Prize x 6: 10 day Study Tour incorporating sites in Belgium and France in April 2026, Visit the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, Attend educational meetings leading up to the tour
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11/08/2025 NEW LISTING |
Peter Blazey Fellowship Open to: Australian residents with a publishing record Theme: None Accepts: Biography, Autobiography and Life Writing Size: Curriculum vitae of two pages, synopsis of one page and 5,000 word extract of a work in progress Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Up to $20,000
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20/08/2025 |
Book Pipeline Unpublished Contest US COMPETITION PRE-REGISTER: 15/01/2025 SPECIAL ENTRY: 20/03/2025 EARLY: 22/05/2025 REGULAR: 20/08/2025 LATE: 05/09/2025 Open to: 18 years and over Theme: None Accepts: Literary, Mystery/Horror/Thriller, Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, General Fiction, Young Adult, Middle Grade, Picture Books, Non-Fiction & Memoir, Comics & Graphic Novels Size: Fiction & Memoirs: first 5,000 words and 1-3 page synopsis, Picture books: full manuscript and 1 page synopsis, Non-Fiction: At least a proposal (Memoirs as fiction). Comics & Graphic Novels: 20-28 pages, 1-3 page synopsis Entry Fee: PRE-REGISTER: $US 25, SPECIAL ENTRY: $US 35, EARLY: $US 45, REGULAR: $US 55, LATE: $US 60 Prizes: Per Category: First: $US 2,500, direct circulation , consideration from producers, additional long-time review & access to exclusive writers events, Runner-up: Direct circulation , consideration from producers, additional long-time review & access to exclusive writers events
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20/08/2025 NEW LISTING |
Lane Cove Literary Awards Open to: Over 16 years, Australian citizens or permanent residents of Australia and must be living in Australia at time of entry Theme: Open * Accepts: Short Story Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: $15.50 Prize: $2,000 * Accepts: Travel Story Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: $15.50 Prize: $1,500 * Accepts: Poetry Size: 50 lines and no more than 1,000 words Entry Fee: $15.50 Prize: $1,500 OTHER PRIZES THE BURNS BAY BOOKERY RESIDENTS PRIZE: $500 SYNERGY YOUTH PRIZE (16 – 24 years): $500 WAIG WOMEN WRITERS PRIZE: $500 WISE SAGE PRIZE (65+ years): $500
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24/08/2025 |
Not Quite Write Prize for Flesh Fiction Open to: 18 years and over Theme: Making the unsexy irresistible Accepts: Erotic Flash Fiction in six categories: Erotic Comedy, Erotic Romance, Fantasy & Supernatural, Literary Erotica, Kink & Taboo, Other Erotic Subgenres Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Overall Winner: $500, 2026 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction annual pass, 12 month subscription to Adult Match Maker (Australian entrants only), 12 month membership to Romance Writers of Australia (Australian Entrants only) OR Romance Writers of America will waive membership admin fee and provide a digital tool kit, Category winners: $100, 2026 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction annual pass, 12 month membership to Romance Writers of Australia (Australian Entrants only) OR Romance Writers of America will waive membership admin fee and provide a digital tool kit, ALL ENTRANTS: $5 discounted from Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction Entry ticket, ALL AUSTRALIAN ENTRANTS: 10% discount off a 12 month membership to Romance Writers of Australia
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29/08/2025 NEW LISTING |
Speech Pathology Australia: Student Ethics Essay Competition Open to: Students enrolled in an undergraduate or post graduate speech pathology degree program in Australia in the 2025 year Theme: How might speech pathologists use ethical principles to address risks associated with the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) so that their professional practice supports safe, high quality, person-centred care? Accepts: Essay Size: 2,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Publication in the Journal of Clinical Practice in Speech-Language Pathology
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29/08/2025 NEW LISTING |
The Pearl Prize Open to: Writers from Australia, New Zealand and Taiwan, over 18 years old Theme: Turning the names inside out, LGBTQIA+ focus Accepts: Prose and/or poetry Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: $15 Prize: First: $500 & copy of anthology, Highly Commended: $300 & copy of anthology
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31/08/2025 |
Anthology Nature Writing Prize IRISH COMPETITION Closing Date: VERY EARLY BIRD: 30/11/2024 EARLY BIRD: 28/02/2025 REGULAR: 31/08/2025 Open to: All Theme: Nature Writing Accepts: Essay Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: VERY EARLY BIRD: €10, EARLY BIRD: €12, REGULAR: €15 Prizes: First: €500
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31/08/2025 |
Anthology Personal Memoir Competition IRISH COMPETITION Closing Date: EARLY BIRD: 28/02/2025 REGULAR: 31/08/2025 Open to: All Theme: Personal unique life experience Accepts: Memoir Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD: €12, REGULAR: €15 Prizes: First: €500
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31/08/2025 |
FAW Tasmania Beatrice Clarke Award Open to: Poets aged 14 and under Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: $5 Prizes: First: $100, Second: $50, Encouragement Prize x 2: $25
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31/08/2025 |
FAW Tasmania Poetry Prize Open to: Residents of Australia Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 60 lines Entry Fee: $5 Prizes: First: $150, Runner-up: $50
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31/08/2025 NEW LISTING |
Fool for Poetry International Chapbook Competition IRISH COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Poetry collection Size: 16 - 24 pages Entry Fee: €25 Prizes: First: €1000, publication and 25 copies, Second: €500, publication and 25 copies In addition, the winning poets will also be offered a reading and three nights' accommodation at the Cork International Poetry Festival.
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31/08/2025 |
Hilarie Lindsay Young Writers Short Story Competition Open to: Australian School Children Theme: Open * Accepts: Section 1 - Short Story - Yrs 10, 11 & 12 Size: 2,500 words Entry Fee: $5 Prize: First: $150 * Accepts: Section 2 - Short Story - Yrs 7, 8 & 9 Size: 2,500 words Entry Fee: $5 Prize: First: $125 * Accepts: Section 3 - Short Story - Yrs 5 & 6 Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: $5 Prize: First: $100 * Accepts: Section 4 - Short Story - Yrs 4 and under Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: $5 Prize: First: $50
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31/08/2025 NEW LISTING |
Inner West Council's Library Young Creative Awards - Writer Award Open to: Aged 12 to 24 and live, work or study in the Inner West, Sydney Theme: Inspired by or referencing an item from the Inner West Library and History collection * Accepts: Short story/poetry/fan fiction/script/journalistic piece/prose - ages 12 to 15 Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $500, Runner-up: $250 * Accepts: Short story/poetry/fan fiction/script/journalistic piece/prose - ages 16 to 18 Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $500, Runner-up: $250 * Accepts: Short story/poetry/fan fiction/script/journalistic piece/prose - ages 19 to 24 Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $500, Runner-up: $250 * Librarian's choice: $100 People's choice: $250 NOTE: Artist and Filmmaker sections also available
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31/08/2025 |
Positive Words Mini Competition Open to: All Theme: Contains the word: Laughter Accepts: Short Story or Poetry Size: 100 words or 10 lines Entry Fee: $3 in unused stamps Prize: Six months subscription to Positive Words
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31/08/2025 |
Marjorie Barnard Short Story Award Open to: Permanent residents of Australia Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: $15 Prize: $500
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31/08/2025 |
Rhiza Edge Short Story Competition Open to: Australian and New Zealand writers Theme 1: Migration and Diaspora Accepts: Fiction and Non-fiction narratives Theme 2: Breakthroughs in history Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,000 - 5,000 words Entry Fee: $16.50 ($11 concession). School entry is $44 and covers all student entries. Prizes: 2 copies of the book plus either a. 4 further copies or b. half price manuscript appraisal
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31/08/2025 |
The Betty Olle Poetry Award Open to: All Theme: Australian * Accepts: Open - Australian Bush Verse Size: Not mentioned Entry Fee: $15 (2 poems) Prize: First: Trophy & $500, Runner-Up: Certificate & $200, Highly Commended: Certificate * Accepts: Junior (12 years and under) - Australian Bush Verse Size: Not mentioned Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: Trophy & $100, Runner-Up: Certificate & $50, Highly Commended: Certificate
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SEPTEMBER 2025 |
01/09/2025 |
Heywire Competition Open to: Australian Residents aged 16-22 and not living in Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth or Sydney Theme: True story about you and/or your community Accepts: Audio, Video, Photos or Text Size: Video & Audio: 2 - 4 minutes, Photos: 10 images, Text: around 400 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize (awarded up to 33 people): Opportunity for story to be produced for ABC and a trip to the Heywire Regional Youth Summit in Canberra (details on website). Networking and communications training, invitation to the Heywire Gala Dinner. Includes flight and accommodation.
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01/09/2025 NEW LISTING |
Roly Sussex Short Story Competition Open to: Australian Citizens or Residents Theme: None * Accepts: Short Story - Open Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: $35 Prizes: First: $7,500 plus up to $500 for to travel from outside South-East Queensland to attend awards ceremony, Second: $1,500 * Accepts: Short Story - Secondary School Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: $25 Prizes: First: $1,000 plus up to $500 for to travel from outside South-East Queensland to attend awards ceremony, Second: $500
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19/09/2025 |
The Mayday Hills Ghost Story Competition To be performed on stage by entrant at Bijou Theatre Hall, Beechworth, on 25/10/2025 Open to: Australian or New Zealand citizen or resident Theme: Horror that involves a ghost/spirit Accepts: Short Story Size: No more than 15 minutes performance Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $100 & Trophy, Second: $50, Third: $25
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26/09/2025 |
Poem Forest A native tree will be planted on Dharawal and Wodi Wodi Country for every entry received Open to: Australian student or young person (aged 18 and under) or an accredited teacher Theme: Understory * Accepts: Lower primary ( F - Year 3) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, handcrafted poetry journal, ‘Wild Things’ poster, 2026 Mycelium Mushroom calendar, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Upper primary ( Years 4 - 6) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, handcrafted poetry journal, ‘Wild Things’ poster, 2026 Mycelium Mushroom calendar, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Primary First Nations ( F – Year 6) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, handcrafted poetry journal, ‘Wild Things’ poster, 2026 Mycelium Mushroom calendar, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Primary CaLD ( F - Year 6) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, handcrafted poetry journal, ‘Wild Things’ poster, 2026 Mycelium Mushroom calendar, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Lower secondary (Years 7 - 9) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, handcrafted poetry journal, ‘Wild Things’ poster, 2026 Mycelium Mushroom calendar, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Upper secondary (Years 10 - 12) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, handcrafted poetry journal, ‘Wild Things’ poster, 2026 Mycelium Mushroom calendar, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Secondary First Nations ( Years 7 - 12) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, handcrafted poetry journal, ‘Wild Things’ poster, 2026 Mycelium Mushroom calendar, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Secondary CaLD ( Years 7 - 12) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, handcrafted poetry journal, ‘Wild Things’ poster, 2026 Mycelium Mushroom calendar, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Accredited Teacher (All ages) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, handcrafted poetry journal, ‘Wild Things’ poster, 2026 Mycelium Mushroom calendar, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Wollongong Community Greening Local Prize ( F – Year 12): $100 Dymocks book voucher, handcrafted poetry journal, ‘Wild Things’ poster, 2026 Mycelium Mushroom calendar, certificate, $50 Wollongong Botanic Garden’s Greenplan Nursery voucher, School prize: Excursion for up to 30 students, 30 plants, All entrants: a seedling
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30/09/2025 |
Anthology Flash Fiction Competition IRISH COMPETITION EARLY BIRD: 28/02/2025 STANDARD: 30/09/2025 Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Flash Fiction Size: 250 words Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD: €10, REGULAR: €12 Prize: €300
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30/09/2025 |
Bridport Prize Memoir Award UK COMPETITION Open to: 16 and over Theme: None Accepts: Memoir Size: Initially: 5,000 - 8,000 words of total work plus 300 word overview, If Long-listed: 15,000 words, If Short-listed: 30,000 words Entry Fee: £24 Prize: First: £1,500, a year of mentoring, consultation with a literary agent, Advice from a publisher, opportunity to discuss with University of Exeter’s Creative Writing Department, Runner-up: £750, feedback, Opportunity to discuss with University of Exeter’s Creative Writing Department, Highly Commended x 3: £150, manuscript appraisal, invitation to an industry day, Opportunity to discuss with University of Exeter’s Creative Writing Department
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30/09/2025 |
Positive Words Mini Competition Open to: All Theme: Contains the word: Magpie Accepts: Short Story or Poetry Size: 100 words or 10 lines Entry Fee: $3 in unused stamps Prize: Six months subscription to Positive Words
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30/09/2025 |
Secrets International Literary Prize UK COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: Respond to the theme song * Accepts: Lyrics or Performed Song Size: Not mentioned Entry Fee: £10, £5 for members, optional feedback: £10 Prize: First: £100, Second: £50, Third: £25 * Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,000 - 5,000 words Entry Fee: £10, £5 for members, optional feedback: £10 Prize: First: £1,000, Second: £100, Third: £50 * Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: £10, £5 for members, optional feedback: £10 Prize: First: £1,000 & fellowship of the RSA, Second: £100, BI £50 * Accepts: Script Size: 10 pages Entry Fee: £10, £5 for members, optional feedback: £10 Prize: First: £100, Second: £50, Third: £25
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30/09/2025 NEW LISTING |
The Moth Nature Writing Prize IRISH COMPETITION Open to: Over 16 Theme: Nature writing Accepts: Prose and Poetry Size: 4,000 words Entry Fee: €15 Prizes: First: €1,000 and a week at The Moth Retreat in Ireland, Second: €500, Third: €250
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OCTOBER 2025 |
15/10/2025 |
MiNDFOOD Poetry Competition Open to: Australian and New Zealand residents Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 100 - 400 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Australian winner: $1,000, New Zealand winner: NZ$1,000
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17/10/2025 |
MiNDFOOD Short Story Competition Open to: Australian and New Zealand residents Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: Approximately 2,000 words (about 100 words either side is fine) Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Australian winner: $1,000, New Zealand winner: NZ$1,000
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18/10/2025 NEW LISTING |
Banjo's Boot - ABPA National Bush Poetry Championship - Written Section Open to: All Theme: Australian * Accepts: Bush poetry - Junior (16 years and under) Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: Trophy and cash, Second: Cash, Third: Cash * Accepts: Bush poetry - Novice Adult Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: $15 Prizes: First: Trophy and cash, Second: Cash, Third: Cash * Accepts: Bush poetry - Open Adult Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: $20 ($15 for members) Prizes: First: Trophy and cash, Second: Cash, Third: Cash
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31/10/2025 |
Flash 500 Novel Opening Chapter & Synopsis Competition UK COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Opening Chapter of a Novel with Synopsis Size: Opening chapter up to 3,000 plus one page synopsis (750 words) Entry Fee: £10, £18 for 2, £26 for 3 (£35 for optional critique) Prizes:
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31/10/2025 |
Positive Words Mini Competition Open to: All Theme: Contains the word: Glad Accepts: Short Story or Poetry Size: 100 words or 10 lines Entry Fee: $3 in unused stamps Prize: Six months subscription to Positive Words
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31/10/2025 |
Short Stories Unlimited Poetry Competition - Salt Water Open to: All Theme: Salt Water Accepts: Poetry Size: No limit (but use common sense) Entry Fee: $5 Prizes: First: $100 & copy of ebook, Second: $50 & copy of ebook, Third: $25 & copy of ebook, Highly commended x 2: $10 & copy of ebook
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31/10/2025 |
Short Stories Unlimited Short Story Competition - Salt Water Open to: All Theme: Salt Water Accepts: Short Story Size: 5,000 words Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $200 & copy of anthology, Second: $100 & copy of anthology, Third: $50 & copy of anthology, Highly commended x 2: $20 & copy of anthology
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31/10/2025 |
The Bedford Competition UK COMPETITION Open to: 17 years and over Theme: None * Accepts: Short Story Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: £8.50, three for £17 (Full time students: £6, three for £12) Prize: First: £1,500, Second: £300, Third: £200, Bedford Prize: £100, Cygnature Prize (25 years and under): £200 * Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: £8.50, three for £17 (Full time students: £6, three for £12) Prize: First: £1,500, Second: £300, Third: £200, Bedford Prize: £100, Cygnature Prize (25 years and under): £200
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NOVEMBER 2025 |
05/11/2025 NEW LISTING |
Simpson Prize Competition Open to: Year 9 & 10 students Theme: ‘Evaluate the usefulness of diary entries, letters, and photographs for providing evidence about the contrasting experiences and perspectives of Australians who served in either the First World War or the Second World War: Discuss with reference to either World War one OR World War Two. Accepts: Essay Size: 1,200- 1,500 words (body of essay) Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Winners and runners-up from each state and territory participate in a 3-day study program in Canberra. The eight winners travel overseas for an extensive study tour culminating in Anzac Day ceremonies in that location
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30/11/2025 |
Anthology Travel Writing Competition IRISH COMPETITION VERY EARLY BIRD: 28/02/2025 EARLY BIRD: 30/04/2025 STANDARD: 30/11/2025 Open to: All Theme: Authentic Travel Experience Accepts: Article Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: VERY EARLY BIRD: €10, EARLY BIRD: €12, REGULAR: €15 Prize: €500
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30/11/2025 |
Positive Words Mini Competition Open to: All Theme: Contains the word: Delight Accepts: Short Story or Poetry Size: 100 words or 10 lines Entry Fee: $3 in unused stamps Prize: Six months subscription to Positive Words
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30/11/2025 NEW LISTING |
The Bath Children's Novel Award UK COMPETITION Open to: International writers yet to be traditionally published Theme: Open Accepts: YA novels, novels for teens, children’s novels, early readers, chapter books and the text of picture books Size: First 5,000 words plus one page synopsis (see website for length of full manuscript) Entry Fee: £29.99 with some sponsored places available for writers on low income Prizes: First: £5,000, Most promising Longlisted Novel: Edit Your Novel the Professional Way on-line course
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DECEMBER 2025 |
12/12/2025 NEW LISTING |
Hawkeye Publishing Manuscript Development Prize Open to: Aged 18 plus Theme: None Accepts: Adult fiction or non-fiction Size: 80,000 words (submit 300 word synopsis and first 30 pages with a one page plan). Must submit full manuscript within 72 hours of being notified as a finalist. Entry Fee: $45, ($99 to include 1-2 pages of constructive feedback) Prize: Author Coaching, Structural Edit and Line Edit (Value $3,500)
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31/12/2025 |
Positive Words Mini Competition Open to: All Theme: Contains the word: Suddenly Accepts: Short Story or Poetry Size: 100 words or 10 lines Entry Fee: $3 in unused stamps Prize: Six months subscription to Positive Words
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