| SEPTEMBER 2026 |
01/09/2026 |
Heywire Competition Open to: Australian Residents aged 16-22 and not living in Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth or Sydney Theme: True story about an aspect of your life, where you live 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), invitation to the Heywire Gala Dinner. Includes flight and accommodation.
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01/09/2026 |
Insight's Creative Writing Competition Open to: Enrolled in years 7 - 12 in Australian Secondary Education Theme: Optional theme: Ignite * Accepts: Creative writing - Year 7 Size: 1,400 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $200, Second: $125, Third: $50 * Accepts: Creative writing - Year 8 Size: 1,400 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $200, Second: $125, Third: $50 * Accepts: Creative writing - Year 9 Size: 1,400 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $250, Second: $175, Third: $100 * Accepts: Creative writing - Year 10 Size: 1,400 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $250, Second: $175, Third: $100 * Accepts: Creative writing - Year 11 Size: 1,400 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $300, Second: $225, Third: $150 * Accepts: Creative writing - Year 12 Size: 1,400 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $300, Second: $225, Third: $150 * Iris Breuer Writing Award: $200 The Rising Star Award The Change-Maker Award The Staff Selection
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01/09/2026 |
Lorikeet's Open Your Mind Poetry Competition Open to: WA residents living with mental health challengers or caring for those that are Theme: Stronger together, Louder together Accepts: Poetry Size: 18 lines (max two poems per person) Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $100, Second: $75, Third: $50, Lorikeet & MIFWA Participants: First: $100, Second: $75
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04/09/2026 NEW LISTING |
AWC Furious Fiction Opens: 5pm (Sydney/Melbourne time) Closes: 55 hours later Open to: 17 years and older Theme: Story prompt provided Accepts: Flash Fiction Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Not mentioned
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04/09/2026 |
King of the Ranges Bush poetry Competition Open to: All Theme: None * Accepts: Bush Poetry - Serious Size: 74 lines or 3-3:30 minutes Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $50, Second: $30, Third: $20 * Accepts: Bush Poetry - Humorous Size: 74 lines or 3-3:30 minutes Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $50, Second: $30, Third: $20 * BEST OVERALL: $100 and trophy
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07/09/2026 |
Fisher's Ghost Writing Prize Open to: Live, work or studies in the Campbelltown Local Government area Theme: “Years in the Making” * Accepts: Adult Size: Short stories/narrative non-fiction/memoirs: 500 words, Poetry: 25 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $300, Highly Commended: $100 * Accepts: Years 4 - 6 Size: Short stories/narrative non-fiction/memoirs: 500 words, Poetry: 25 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100, Highly Commended: $50 * Accepts: Years 7 - 9 Size: Short stories/narrative non-fiction/memoirs: 500 words, Poetry: 25 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100, Highly Commended: $50 * Accepts: Years 10 -12 Size: Short stories/narrative non-fiction/memoirs: 500 words, Poetry: 25 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100, Highly Commended: $50
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08/09/2026 |
Queensland Poetry Awards ARTS QUEENSLAND THOMAS SHAPCOTT POETRY PRIZE FOR AN UNPUBLISHED MANUSCRIPT Open to: Queensland residents or have a significant, demonstrable connection to Queensland Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: Manuscript of 48 - 100 pages Entry Fee: $50, $40 Concession/Members Prizes: First: $5,000 & a publishing contract and editorial development with UQP, Runner Up: $500 ARTS QUEENSLAND VAL VALLIS AWARD FOR AN UNPUBLISHED POEM Open to: Australian residents Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: $25, $20 concession/members Prizes: First: $3,500 & publication, Runner Up: $500 & publication OODGEROO NOONUCCAL INDIGENOUS POETRY PRIZE Open to: Residents of Australia & an Indigenous Writer Theme: Open Accepts: Poetry Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: $15, Nil Concession/Members Prizes: First: $3,500 & publication, Runner-Up: $500 & publication ARTS QUEENSLAND XYZ PRIZE FOR SPOKEN WORD Open to: Australian residents Theme: None Accepts: Recorded Poetry Size: Maximum of 3 minutes per poem Entry Fee: $25, $20 Concession/Members Prize: $3,500 and publication
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11/09/2026 |
Cabonne Women Writers Open Writing Competition Open to: 16 years and over and live in a rural or remote area (All genders) Theme: Lost Accepts: Open format Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $300
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11/09/2026 |
Pens Against Poverty Open to: Australian students in grades 3-10 (needs a teacher or parent to submit/endorse the entry) Theme: Where I Belong Accepts: Short Story or Poem Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Not specified (Cash prizes were award last year)
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13/09/2026 |
CRAFT Flash Prose Prize US COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Short Fiction and creative nonfiction Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: $USD 20 (entry can include two flash prose pieces) Prizes: First x 3: $USD 1,000, a bundle of the Rose Metal Press Field Guides, publication, 3 x Editors choice: $USD 200, publication
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14/09/2026 |
Blacktown Mayoral Creative Writing Prize Open to: Residents of Blacktown City , NSW Theme: All Out * Accepts: 8 - 11 years: Story Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $200 plus school prize of $100 * Accepts: 12 - 14 years: Story Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $200 plus school prize of $100 * Accepts: 15 - 17 years: Story Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $200 plus school prize of $100 * Accepts: Adult (18+): Story Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $300 * Accepts: 8 - 11 years: Poem Size: 25 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $200 plus school prize of $100 * Accepts: 12 - 14 years: Poem Size: 25 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $200 plus school prize of $100 * Accepts: 15 - 17 years: Poem Size: 25 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $200 plus school prize of $100 * Accepts: Adult (18+): Poem Size: 25 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $300
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14/09/2026 |
The Wild Muse Nature Writing Prize UK COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: Nature's Wisdom and Healing Accepts: Stories, poems and essays Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: £10.36 Prizes: First: £750, Second: £300, Third: £150
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16/09/2026 |
KSP Poetry Competition Open to: Australian residents Theme: Open * Accepts: Poetry – Open (18 years plus) Size: 50 lines Entry Fee: $12 Prizes: First: $300 plus one weeks' residency at KSP Writers' Centre, Second: $150, Commended: Certificate * Accepts: Poetry - Youth (10 to 17 years) Size: 50 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $100, Second: $50, Commended: Certificate, Mundaring National Young Writers Encouragement Award for under 14s: $25 * Annette Cameron Encouragement award for an unpublished WA poet Accepts: Poetry - (Over age of 18) Size: 50 lines Entry Fee: $12 Prize: $150
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16/09/2026 |
KSP Short Fiction Competition Open to: Australian residents Theme: None * Accepts: Short Fiction - Open Size: 2,500 words Entry Fee: $12 Prizes: First: $300 plus one weeks' residency at KSP Writers' Centre, Second: $150, Commended: Certificate * Accepts: Short Fiction - Youth (up to 17 years of age) Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $100, Second: $50, Commended: Certificate, Mundaring National Young Writers Encouragement Award for under 14s: $25
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18/09/2026 |
Andrew Hardy Poetry Prize Open to: Tasmanian residents aged 8 to 25 Theme: None * Accepts: Poetry - ages 8 to 15 Size: 50 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Cash prizes (to be determined) * Accepts: Poetry - ages 16 to 25 Size: 50 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Cash prizes (to be determined)
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18/09/2026 |
Booklinks Short Story Writing Competition for Children in Years 4 - 6 Open to: Children in years 4 - 6 living in Australia Theme: None Accepts: Short story Size: 500 - 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100
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18/09/2026 |
Dickinson Memorial Literary Prize NOTE: SUBMISSIONS IN HARD-COPY BRAILLE, A WORD DOCUMENT, SIMBRAILLE or a DUXBURY-readable file Open to: Australian Residents who are legally blind, or have low or no vision, People's Choice: Open Theme: Challenge * Accepts: Adult (Over 18) - Short Story Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $350, Second: $150 * Accepts: Adult (Over 18) - Poem/Song Lyrics/Limerick Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $350, Second: $150 * Accepts: Adult (Over 18) - Article/Opinion Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $350, Second: $150 * Accepts: Senior Student (13 - 17 years) – Creative Writing Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $350, Second: $150 * Accepts: Junior Student (12 years and under) – Creative Writing Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $350, Second: $150 * Accepts: People's Choice – Creative Writing Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $350, Second: $150
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18/09/2026 |
Lambing Flat Regional Writing Competition Open to: All Theme: None * Accepts: Short Story - Adult Open Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: $10 or 4 for $30 Prizes: First: $200, Second: $100, Third: $50, Emerging Writer: $100 * Accepts: Poetry - Adult Open Size: 50 lines Entry Fee: $10 or 4 for $30 Prizes: First: $200, Second: $100, Third: $50, Emerging Writer: $100 * Accepts: Short Story - Infants (Years 1 - 2) Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $30, Second: $15 * Accepts: Poetry – Infants (Years 1 - 2) Size: 15 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $30, Second: $15 * Accepts: Short Story - Junior Primary (Years 3 - 4) Size: 600 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $40, Second: $20 * Accepts: Poetry - Junior Primary (Years 3 - 4) Size: 15 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $40, Second: $20 * Accepts: Short Story - Primary (Years 5 - 6) Size: 750 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $50, Second: $25 * Accepts: Poetry - Primary (Years 5 - 6) Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $50, Second: $25 * Accepts: Short Story - Secondary (Years 7 - 9) Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $100, Second: $50 * Accepts: Poetry - Secondary (Years 7 - 9) Size: 50 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $100, Second: $50 * Accepts: Short Story - Secondary (Years 10 - 12) Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $100, Second: $50 * Accepts: Poetry - Secondary (Years 10 - 12) Size: 50 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $100, Second: $50
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18/09/2026 |
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 assistance 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 assistance to travel from outside South-East Queensland to attend awards ceremony, Second: $500
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20/09/2026 |
#periodpride Competition PRIZE IS PAID TO THE NOMINATED COMMUNITY GROUP OR SCHOOL Open to: All Theme: Social issues surrounding menstruation, focus on young people Accepts: Written Size: No limit Entry Fee: Nil Prizes paid to nominated community group or school: First: $5,000, Second: $2,000, Third: $1,000, Category winner: $1,000 NOTE: Other categories include Video/Short Film, Performed Song, Art Work and Major Art Installation
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20/09/2026 |
Campbelltown Writer's Competition Open to: South Australian writers Theme: “Connections”. Open writers must have also include a reference to the Campbelltown area. Other writers, a reference to the Campbelltown area is preferred but not essential * Accepts: Fiction or Non-fiction - Junior writer (7 -14 years old) Size: 2,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $125 gift card, Runner-up x 2: $75 gift card * Accepts: Fiction or Non-fiction - Junior writer (15 - 24 years old) Size: 2,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $175 gift card, Runner-up x 2: $100 gift card * Accepts: Fiction or Non-fiction - Open writer (25 years old and over) Size: 2,500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $225 gift card, Runner-up x 2: $125 gift card
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20/09/2026 |
Eyeland Book Awards GREEK COMPETITION €1 FROM EACH SUBMISSION DONATED TO UNITED NATION'S REFUGEE AGENCY GREECE EARLY BIRD: 20/09/2026 REGULAR: 20/10/2026 Open to: All Theme: None Award categories: - Full Length books of fiction (novels or novellas) of any genre - Collections of short stories - Collections of poems - Historical Fiction - Memoir / Authobiography - Children’s and YA books – Graphic Novels - LGBTQIA+ (texts of any genre with main theme related to the community) - Sci-Fi – Fantasy/ Magic Realism - Crime / Thriller – Horror (Novel or novellas) - Self-published books - Distinction for U20 – a short story or three poems - Short story contest for 18 - Short plays Size: - Published/Unpublished books: 300,000 words; - Text/Poetry Collection: up to 300 pages - Play:20 minutes with up to four roles Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD: €30 REGULAR: €40 Short story U 18: Nil Writers of countries suffering from the consequences of a war: Nil Grand prize winners from prior EBA contests: Nil Writers from first-time-submitting countries: Nil Prizes: Grand Prize (Published books): five-day holiday in Anthens in November 2026 to attend the prize ceremony (Air tickets not included), tickets to Acropolis of Athens, 5-day public transport ticket, round-trip ticket for the ferry to the island of Aegina Grand Prize (Unpublished books): Translation into Greek and publication from Strange Day Books, Writers' choice: Five-day stay in Athens in November 2026 to attend the ceremony OR translation of the book into Greek, Short Story U18: special distinction and a handmade ceramic Short Play: Audio performance of the play 24 prize winners: Handmade ceramic designed for the EBA awards
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20/09/2026 NEW LISTING |
Narrogin Agricultural Society's Writing Competition Open to: People living within 50km of Narrogin * Accepts: Poetry Theme: Trains, Tracks and Traditions Size: 1 page Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Unspecified prizes for Adults, High School Students and Primary School Students * Accepts: Short Story Theme: True story about trains or railways Size: 2 pages Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Unspecified prizes for Adults, High School Students and Primary School Students * Accepts: Song Rewrite Theme: Train or railway theme Size: 1 page Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Unspecified prizes for Adults, High School Students and Primary School Students
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| 22/09/2026 |
Book Pipeline Unpublished Contest US COMPETITION PRE-REGISTER: 30/01/2026 SPECIAL ENTRY: 20/03/2026 EARLY: 20/05/2026 REGULAR: 25/08/2026 LATE: 22/09/2026 EXTENDED: 15/10/2026 Open to: 18 years and over Theme: None Accepts: Comics & Graphic Novels, General Fiction, Literary, Mystery/Horror/Thriller, Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Young Adult, Middle Grade& & Chapter Book, Picture Books, Non-Fiction & Memoir 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 35, SPECIAL ENTRY: $US 45, EARLY: $US 55, REGULAR: $US 60, LATE: $US 65, EXTENDED: $US 70 Prizes: Per Category: First: $US 2,500, development & mentoring, industry circulation , consideration from producers, additional long-time review, exclusive invitations to Symposium events
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22/09/2026 |
Bruce Dawe National Poetry Prize Open to: Australian citizens or Permanent Residents of Australia Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 50 lines Entry Fee: $8 Prizes: First: $3,000, Highly Commended x 2: $500
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23/09/2026 |
The Nature Conservancy Nature Writing Prize Open To: Australian citizens or permanent residents of Australia over age of 18 Theme: Writing of Place. Set in the Australian landscape Accepts: Essay Size: 3,000 - 5,000 words Entry Fee: $30 ($25 for subscribers) Prize: First: $8,000, Highly Commended (The Rosina Joy Buckman Award): $1,000
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25/09/2026 |
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: The Sounds of Country * Accepts: Lower primary ( F - Year 3) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, native seeds pack, poetry journal, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Upper primary ( Years 4 - 6) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, native seeds pack, poetry journal, 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, native seeds pack, poetry journal, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Primary CaLD ( F - Year 6) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, native seeds pack, poetry journal, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Lower secondary (Years 7 - 9) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, native seeds pack, poetry journal, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Upper secondary (Years 10 - 12) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, native seeds pack, poetry journal, 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, native seeds pack, poetry journal, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Secondary CaLD ( Years 7 - 12) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, native seeds pack, poetry journal, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Accepts: Accredited Teacher (All ages) - Poetry Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $100 Dymocks book voucher, native seeds pack, poetry journal, certificate, Highly Commended: book prize * Wollongong Community Greening Local Prize ( F – Year 12): School Prize: free school excursion/incursion for one class (up to 30 students) with Wollongong Botanic Garden and 30 free plants form the Farden’s Greenplan Nursery for the best collaborative class poem Individual Prize: $100 Dymocks book voucher, native seeds pack, poetry journal, certificate and $50 Wollongong Botanic Garden’s Greenplan Nursery voucher
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25/09/2026 NEW LISTING |
Writory Monthly Poetry Contest INDIAN COMPETITION Open to: 13 plus Theme: None Accepts: Poetry (in any language) Size: No limit Entry Fee: $USD 5, (2 for $USD 8, 5 for $USD 15) Prizes: First: $USD 100, Second: $USD 50, Third: $USD 20
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| 30/09/2026 |
Anthology Flash Fiction Competition IRISH COMPETITION EARLY BIRD: 28/02/2026 STANDARD: 30/09/2026 Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Flash Fiction Size: 250 words Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD: €10, REGULAR: €12 Prize: €300
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| 30/09/2026 |
Anthology Nature Writing Prize IRISH COMPETITION Closing Date: EARLY BIRD: 31/01/2026 REGULAR: 30/09/2026 Open to: All Theme: Nature Writing Accepts: Essay Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD: €12, REGULAR: €15 Prizes: First: €300
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30/09/2026 |
Armadale Writers' Award Open to: Western Australian writers, aged 18 years and over Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,000 - 3,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: First: $1,500, Second: $1,000, Third: $750, 7 x finalists: $50 book voucher, Local Prize: $500
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30/09/2026 |
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: £26 Prize: First: £1,500, a year of mentoring, consultation with a literary agent, Advice from an editor, 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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30/09/2026 |
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 creative writing course of the winner's choice and publication, Runners-up x 2: £200
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30/09/2026 |
Destiny 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 Prize: First: £100, Second: £50, Third: £25 * Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,000 - 5,000 words Entry Fee: £10, £5 for members Prize: First: £1,000, Second: £100, Third: £50 * Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: £10, £5 for members Prize: First: £1,000, Second: £100, Third: £50 * Accepts: Script Size: 10 pages Entry Fee: £10, £5 for members Prize: First: £100, Second: £50, Third: £25
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30/09/2026 |
Flash 500 Flash Fiction Competition UK 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 (Optional Critique: £15) Prize:First: £300, Second: £200, Third: £100
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30/09/2026 NEW LISTING |
Jerry Jazz Musician Short Fiction Prize US COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None (but consider interests of the readership) Accepts: Short Story Size: Up to 3,000 words preferred but up to 4,000 words considered Entry Fee: Nil Prize: $USD 150
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30/09/2026 NEW LISTING |
Marj Wilke Short Story Award Open to: Australian women over the age of 18 years Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: $15 ($40 for 3) (Financial members can submit 1 free entry) Prizes: First: $350, Runner-up: $150
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30/09/2026 NEW LISTING |
Regional Content Competition Open to: Australian writers Theme: Relevant to regional Australia and within the themes of Lifestyle, Agriculture, Regional Living, Seasonal, Sport and Fillers (see webiste for more detials) Accepts: Content suitable for regional newspapers and magazines Size: Around 200 words, 400 words or 600 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Randomly drawn from pool of articles meeting requirements: $200, $400 and $600 Note: articles remain in the library and any fees paid by publishers will be split 60/40 to writer/platform
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30/09/2026 |
Rhiza Edge Short Story Competition Open to: Australian and New Zealand writers Theme: Hidden Creatures and suitable for 12+ to read Accepts: Short Story Sizes: 1,000 - 5,000 words Entry Fee: $22 (20% discount for seniors and students). School entry fee available on contac Prizes: Copy of the book, 15 minute pitch, plus either a. 5 further copies or b. $100 discount on manuscript appraisal
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| 30/09/2026 |
Shore Scripts Short Film Fund - Fall Season US COMPETITION EARLY BIRD: 20/08/2026 REGULAR: 30/09/2026 FINAL: 30/10/2026 Open to: All Accepts: Scripts Size: 2 - 30 pages Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD: $39, REGULAR: $49, FINAL: $59 Prizes: Production Grant First: $USD 15,000 production grant, Project & career Guidance with producer Maria Gracia Turgeon, Camera Equipment rental from Arri Rental, Festival planning strategy with Kimberley Browning, Production support and script development, Film shared with judges and industry roster, Short Scripts Film Festival Guidebook PDF, Production Grant Top 5: Feedback, Script sent to directors and relevant industry roster, Short Scripts Film Festival Guidebook PDF, Production Grant Finalists: Script sent to directors and relevant industry roster, Short Scripts Film Festival Guidebook PDF, Production Grant Semi-Finalists: Short Scripts Film Festival Guidebook PDF Finishing Funds First: $USD 4,000 Finishing Funds Grant, Festival planning strategy with Kimberley Browning, Post-production support and script development, Film shared with industry roster, Short Scripts Film Festival Guidebook PDF, Finishing Funds Finalists: Feedback on the Rough Cut of their film, Short Scripts Film Festival Guidebook PDF, All Submissions: Brief Feedback on what is working and potential for improvement
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30/09/2026 |
Southword Editor's Poetry Award IRISH COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Three poems Size: Not mentioned Entry Fee: €24 (includes complimentary 1 year subscription) Prize: €1,000
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30/09/2026 |
The Bedford Flash Fiction Competition UK COMPETITION Open to: 17 years and over Theme: None Accepts: Flash Fiction Size: 300 words Entry Fee: £8.50, three for £17 (Full time students: £6, three for £12) Prize: First: £500
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30/09/2026 |
The Henshaw Short Story Competition UK COMPETITION ALL PROFITS EACH YEAR WILL GO TO BOOKS FOR A CHOSEN 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 16 Years and under may enter to receive a free critique
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30/09/2026 |
The Larrikin House Prize Open to: Australian Authors Theme: Own Voices Accepts: Picture books, Middle Grade, YA and Adult fiction Size: Picture books: 500 words, All other manuscripts: first 1,000 words Entry Fee: $25 Prizes: 12 months mentorship, zoom chat about the industry, consideration for publication
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30/09/2026 |
The Moth Nature Writing Prize IRISH COMPETITION Open to: Over 16 Theme: Nature writing Accepts: Prose and Poetry Size: 4,000 words Entry Fee: €16 Prizes: First: €1,000 and a week at The Moth Retreat in Ireland, Second: €500, Third: €250
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30/09/2026 |
The Pearl Prize EARLY BIRD: 30/09/2026 LATE RISER: 10/12/2026 A BIT LATER TO THE PARTY: 30/05/2027 Open to: Over 18 years old Theme: A queer perspective from GSD or allies, “The Mystery Out There” and contain three of the following words/objects: Purse, Walking Stick, Umbrella, Poirot Moustache, Monocle, Glove Accepts: Creative writing Size: 2,000 words Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD: $25, LATER RISER: $30, A BIT LATER TO THE PARTY: $35 (Covers two entries) Prize: First: $2000 & opportunity to pitch a novella to Osborne and Fawkner Publishing
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30/09/2026 |
Tom Collins Poetry Prize Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 60 lines Entry Fee: $27 ($22 for Members) Prizes: First: $1,000 , Second: $300, Third: $100
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30/09/2026 |
Woorilla Poetry Competition Open to: All Theme: None * JUDITH RODRIGUEZ OPEN SECTION Accepts: Poetry Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: $20 Prize: First: $3,000, Runner-up: $500 * LOUISE ROCKNE YOUTH SECTION (12 - 18 years old) Accepts: Poetry Size: 80 lines Entry Fee: Nil for first 4 entries, $5 each thereafter Prize: First: $300, Runner-up: $100
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| OCTOBER 2026 |
01/10/2026 NEW LISTING |
Hektoen Essay Contest US COMPETITION Open to: 18 years or older Theme: Hospitals of Note: focussing on the history of a particular hospital Accepts: Essay Size: 500-1,600 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: $US 5,000, Second: $US 2,500
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09/10/2026 |
Silver Quill Written Competition Open to: All Theme: Australian * Accepts: Poetry - Open Serious Size: No limit Entry Fee: $10 Prize: Cash prizes * Accepts: Poetry - Open Humorous Size: No limit Entry Fee: $10 Prize: Cash prizes * Accepts: Poetry - Novice Size: No limit Entry Fee: $10 Prize: Cash prizes * Accepts: Poetry - Junior (under 18 years) Size: No limit Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Cash prizes
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09/10/2026 NEW LISTING |
Willoughby City Library Emerging Writers' Competition Open to: Writers aged 8 to 13 who live or go to school in the Willoughby LGA and a member of the Willoughby City Library Theme: 'the letter' Accepts: Short story or poem Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize: Unspecified prizes
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11/10/2026 NEW LISTING |
Little Stories, Big Ideas Open to: Australian Secondary School Students Theme: Portal * Accepts: Any literary style - Year 10 - 12 Size: 100 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize:First: $250, Express Media membership, Voiceworks subcription, book pack and a masterclass with Author Amelia Mellor, Runner-up: Express Media membership, Voiceworks subcription, book pack and a masterclass with Author Amelia Mellor * Accepts: Any literary style - Year 7 - 9 Size: 100 words Entry Fee: Nil Prize:First: $250, Express Media membership, Voiceworks subcription, book pack and a masterclass with Author Amelia Mellor, Runner-up: Express Media membership, Voiceworks subcription, book pack and a masterclass with Author Amelia Mellor
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12/10/2026 |
ImPress Writing Competition Open to: South Australian Residents Theme: Stories are like music, each adding its own sound to the world. What happens when one story creates conflict, and what brings the harmony back? * Accepts: Short story or poem - Years 3 - 4 Size: 300 words Entry Fee: Nil * Accepts: Short story or poem - Years 5 - 6 Size: 300 words Entry Fee: Nil * Accepts: Short story or poem - Years 7 - 8 Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil * Accepts: Short story or poem - Years 9 - 11 Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil * Accepts: Short story or poem - Teacher Size: 500 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes include Cool Online writing course, book vouchers and book prizes
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14/10/2026 |
Peter Porter Poetry Prize Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 60 lines Entry Fee: Online entry - Subscriber: $20, Online entry - Non-Subscriber: $30, Online entry & Subscription packages available Prizes: First: $6,000, Shortlisted entries x 4: $1,000
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15/10/2026 |
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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17/10/2026 |
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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23/10/2026 NEW LISTING |
FFF Competition Thirty-Six UK COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Flash Fiction Size: 100 - 300 words Entry Fee: £4.95 Prizes: First: £200 & publication, Highly Commended: £100, Shortlisted: £80
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23/10/2026 NEW LISTING |
Not Quite Write Prize NOTE: Prompts are emailed out at midday 23/10/2026 with competition closing at midnight 25/10/2026 Open to: All Theme: Two sets to choose from, each consisting of 3 prompts: a word prompt, an action prompt and a "kicker" prompt Accepts: Flash Fiction Size: 500 words Entry Fee: $35 (Coaching Package: $175) Prizes: First: $1,500, Second: $1000, Third: $500, Fourth: $350, Fifth: $250, Sixth: $200, Wildcard x 4: $100
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30/10/2026 |
SD Harvey Short Crime Story Award Open to: Australian Residents Theme: Crime Accepts: Fiction or Non-Fiction Size: 2,000 - 5,000 words Entry Fee: $35 Prize: Not mentioned
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| 31/10/2026 |
Anthology Poetry Award IRISH COMPETITION Closing Date: VERY EARLY BIRD: 31/01/2026 EARLY BIRD: 31/06/2026 REGULAR: 31/10/2026 Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: VERY EARLY BIRD: €12, EARLY BIRD: €15, REGULAR: €18 Prizes: First: €1,000, Second: €250, Third: €150
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31/10/2026 NEW LISTING |
Anthology Short Story Award IRISH COMPETITION Closing Date: VERY EARLY BIRD: 31/10/2026 EARLY BIRD: 31/01/2027 REGULAR: 30/08/2027 Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,500 words Entry Fee: VERY EARLY BIRD: €12, EARLY BIRD: €15, REGULAR: €18 Prizes: First: €1,000, Second: €250, Third: €150
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31/10/2026 |
Ernestine Hill Memorial Award Open to: Permanent residents of Australia Theme: Australian Country Accepts: Short Story Size: 4,000 words Entry Fee: $20 Prize: $1,000
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31/10/2026 |
Fiction Factory Flash Fiction Competition UK COMPETITION Open to: All aged 16 and over Theme: None Accepts: Flash Fiction Size: 3,000 words Entry Fee: £7 (£13 for 2, £18 for 3) Prize: First: £350, Second & Third: Free assessment
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31/10/2026 |
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: First: £500, Second: £200
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31/10/2026 |
Hilarie Lindsay Young Writers Poetry Competition Open to: Australian School Children Theme: Open * Accepts: Section 1 - Poetry - Yrs 11 & 12 Size: 60 lines Entry Fee: $5 Prize: First: $125 * Accepts: Section 2 - Poetry - Yrs 9 & 10 Size: 50 lines Entry Fee: $5 Prize: First: $100 * Accepts: Section 3 - Poetry - Yrs 7 & 8 Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: $5 Prize: First: $90 * Accepts: Section 4 - Poetry - Yrs 5 & 6 Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: $5 Prize: First: $70 * Accepts: Section 5 - Poetry – Yrs 3 & 4 Size: 30 lines Entry Fee: $5 Prize: First: $50 * Accepts: Section 6 - Poetry - Yrs 1 & 2 Size: 20 lines Entry Fee: $5 Prize: First: $30
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| 31/10/2026 |
Killer Shorts US COMPETITION FIRST WAVE DEADLINE: 05/06/2026 EARLY DEADLINE / EARLY BIRD DEADLINE: 07/08/2026 REGULAR DEADLINE: 31/10/2026 STANDARD DEADLINE / FINAL DEADLINE : 04/12/2026 EXTENDED DEADLINE: 31/12/2026 Open to: Entrant's total earnings for screenwriting must not exceed $USD 10,000 in the past 12 months (does not include prize money) Theme: Horror * 1-PLAY SCREENPLAY Accepts: Screenplay Size: 1 page Entry Fee: STANDARD DEADLINE: $USD 10, EXTENDED DEADLINE: $USD 15 Prizes: Grand Prize: $USD 500 & Winner Laurels, The Killer Trophy, 6 Month ISA Connect Membership, plus all Top 3 prizes, Top 3: Industry Circulation, The Scream List, Final Draft 13 Software License, Creator Bundle (Stan Winston School Membership, We Make Movies Gold Membership, and Script Revolution Rockstar memberships), 100% off “Search For New Blood” contest entry, plus all Finalist prizes, Finalists x 10: Finalist Laurels & Script Directory Publication, Stage 32 Access (Free Stage 32 “Next Level” Webinar and 20% off “Search For New Blood” contest entry), Semi & Quarterfinalists: Placement Laurels (Semi or Quarterfinalist), Reduced rates for Stage 32 contests and partner webinars. * SHORT SCREENPLAY Accepts: Screenplay Size: 1 - 20 pages Entry Fee: FIRST WAVE DEADLINE: $USD 20, EARLY DEADLINE: $USD 25, REGULAR DEADLINE: $USD 30, FINAL DEADLINE: $USD 35, EXTENDED DEADLINE: $USD 40 Prizes: First x 3: The Killer Trophy & Winner Laurels, Industry Circulation,The Scream List, Stage 32 Pro Package (60-min Career Development Call, Short Script Coverage, FREE “Search for New Blood” contest entry), The Winner’s Bundle (Final Draft 13, Shudder memberships, ISA Connect Memberships and access to Robert McKee’s Horror Webinar Series), Horror Fan Bundle (Rue Morgue Magazine Subscription and Fright Rags Gift Card) plus all Finalist prizes, Finalists x 10: Finalist Laurels & Script Directory Publication, Final Draft 13 Software License, Production Suite (Seed & Spark Consultation and We Make Movies Gold Membership), Stage 32 Access (Script Coverage, Next Level Webinar and 50% off “Search For New Blood” entry), plus all Semifinalist prizes, Semifinalists & Honourable Mentions: Semifinalist Laurels & Script Directory Publication, Stage 32 Package (Next Level Webinar and 20% off “Search For New Blood” entry), Quarterfinalists: Reduced rates for Stage 32 contests and partner services. * SHORT STORY (PROSE) Accepts: Short Story Size: 6,000 words Entry Fee: FIRST WAVE DEADLINE: $USD 20, EARLY DEADLINE: $USD 25, REGULAR DEADLINE: $USD 30, FINAL DEADLINE: $USD 35, EXTENDED DEADLINE: $USD 40 Prizes: Grand Prize: The Killer Trophy & Winner Laurels, One-on-one 30-minute meeting with author and screenwriter Chris Hicks (I Am Not Alone), Featured story placement on the Killer Shorts website, plus all Top 3 & Finalist prizes, Top 3: Winner Laurels, Industry Circulation, plus all Finalist prizes, Finalists x 10: Scrivener Software, Stage 32 Access (Free “Next Level” Webinar and 50% off “Search For New Blood” entry), Semifinalists: Semifinalist Laurels & Script Directory Publication, Free Stage 32 Webinar and 20% off “Search For New Blood” entry, Quarterfinalists: 20% off Stage 32 “Search For New Blood” entry. * FEATURE SCREENPLAY Accepts: Screenplay Size: 70 - 120 pages Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD DEADLINE: $USD 45, REGULAR DEADLINE: $USD 55, FINAL DEADLINE: $USD 65, EXTENDED DEADLINE: $USD 75 Prizes: Grand Prize: $USD 5,000 , The Killer Trophy & Winner Laurels, Guaranteed script review by literary manager John Zaozirny, plus all Top 3 & Finalist prizes, Top 3: Industry Circulation, The Winner’s Bundle (Final Draft 13, Free Feature Script Entry to ScriptHop’s Gauntlet, and We Make Movies Gold Membership), $50 Deep Cuts Coffee Gift Card, plus all Finalist prizes, Finalists x 10: Finalist Laurels & Script Directory Publication, Seed & Spark Crowdfunding Consultation, plus all Semifinalist prizes, Semifinalists: The Script Directory ( Logline publication in our curated industry database), Quarterfinalists: Quarterfinalist Laurels
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31/10/2026 |
Martha Richardson Memorial Poetry Prize Open to: All Theme: Night Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: $35 ($25 for members of Ballarat Writers), $15 for each additional poem Prize: First: $1,000, Second: $400, Third: $100
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31/10/2026 |
Noosa Arts Theatre National One-Act Playwriting Competition Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: One-Act Play Size: 30 - 45 minutes, see T&Cs for staging requirements Entry Fee: $60 Prizes: The Eleanor Nimmo Prize for Best Play (First): $10,000, Second: $3,000, Third: $1,000, Audience Choice Award: $500
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31/10/2026 |
Rae Alison Cerhan Australian Ballad Open to: Permanent residents of Australia Theme: Australiana Accepts: Ballad Size: 100 lines Entry Fee: $18 Prize: First: $600, Second: $200, Third: $100
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31/10/2026 |
Short Stories Unlimited Poetry Competition - Future Open to: All Theme: Future 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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31/10/2026 |
Short Stories Unlimited Short Story Competition - Future Open to: All Theme: Future Accepts: Short Story Size: 5,000 words Entry Fee: $10 Prizes: First: $200 & copy of ebook, Second: $100 & copy of ebook, Third: $50 & copy of ebook, Highly commended x 2: $20 & copy of ebook
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31/10/2026 |
The Aluminium Crown Prize funds are sourced from entirely from the Victorian Container Deposit Scheme and fundraising will continue until the closing date Open to: 18 plus Theme: Speculative fiction. Prompt: In the year 2055, due to environmental pressures, Melbourne will be forced to think inside the box: the CBD will be enclosed in a gargantuan protective structure. This is the Central Business Cube, the CBC. Accepts: Short Story Size: 500-4,000 words Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: Minimum of $300
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31/10/2026 |
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: £2,000, Second: £400, Third: £300, Bedford Prize: £200, Cygnature Prize (25 years and under): £300 * Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: £8.50, three for £17 (Full time students: £6, three for £12) Prize: First: £2,000, Second: £400, Third: £300, Bedford Prize: £200, Cygnature Prize (25 years and under): £300
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31/10/2026 NEW LISTING |
The Best of Times Short Story Competition Open to: All (except stories that have previously won a prize or certificate in prior Best of Times) Theme: Humorous Accepts: Short Story Size: 2,500 words Entry Fee: $12 Prizes: First: 60% of entry fees, Second: 15% of entry fees, Third place: 5% of entry fees, Highly commended and commended certificates
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| 31/10/2026 |
The Hope Prize SUPPORTING CAMFED (The Campaign for Female Education) EARLY BIRD: 31/07/2026 REGULAR: 31/10/2026 Open to: Over 18 Theme: Hope, courage and resilience Accepts: Short Story Size: 5,000 words Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD: $25, REGULAR: $33 (limited fee-free places for writers experiencing hardship) Prizes: First: $10,000, Second: $2,000, Third: $1,000
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31/10/2026 |
The National Poetry Competition UK COMPETITION Open to: 18 years and over Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: £9 and £6 for each subsequent entry in the same submission (Members: One free second poem, with subsequent poems £6) Prize: First: £5,000, Second: £3,000, Third: £2,000, Commended: £500
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| NOVEMBER 2026 |
04/11/2026 |
Simpson Prize Competition Open to: Year 9 & 10 students Theme: ‘How useful are artefacts and artwork as historical sources when researching the experience of Australians who served in either the First World War of Second World War?’ Discuss with reference to either World War one OR World War Two. Accepts: Essay or Video Size: Essay: 1,200- 1,500 words (body of essay), Video: 10 minutes with accompanying written explanation of up to 400 words 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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08/11/2026 NEW LISTING |
The Masters Review Novel Excerpt Contest US COMPETITION Open to: Emerging writers Theme: None Accepts: Excerpt from unpublished novel Size: 6,000 words Entry Fee: $US 20 (limited free entries for writers from historically marginalized or underrepresented groups) Prizes: First: $US 3,000 and consultation with an agent Second: $US 300 and agent feedback, Third: $US 200 and agent feedback
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14/11/2026 |
F(r)iction Contest - Fall US COMPETITION Open to: All over 13 * Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,001 to 7,500 words Entry Fee: $US 15 Prizes: First: $US 1,000 & publication, 5 x finalists: professional edit & consideration for publication * Theme: None Accepts: Flash Fiction Size: 1,000 words per piece Entry Fee: $US 10, $US12 for 3 Prizes: First: $US 300 & publication, 5 x finalists: professional edit & consideration for publication * Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: Three pages per poem Entry Fee: $US 10, $US12 for 3 Prizes: First: $US 300 & publication, 5 x finalists: professional edit & consideration for publication
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| 30/11/2026 |
Anthology Travel Writing Competition IRISH COMPETITION EARLY BIRD: 31/03/2026 STANDARD: 30/11/2026 Open to: All Theme: Authentic Travel Experience Accepts: Article Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: EARLY BIRD: €12, REGULAR: €15 Prize: €300
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30/11/2026 NEW LISTING |
Fiction Factory First Chapter & Synopsis Competition UK COMPETITION Open to: All aged 18 and over Theme: None Accepts: First Chapter of a novel Size: 5,000 words of First Chapter Entry Fee: £18 (additional £25 for an appraisal) Prizes: First : £500 and appraisal, Short-listed: Appraisal
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30/11/2026 |
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 Entry Fee: £33 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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30/11/2026 |
The Gregory O'Donoghue International Poetry Competition IRISH COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Poetry Size: 40 lines Entry Fee: €7, 5 for €30 Prizes: First: €2,000, Featured reading at the Cork International Poetry Festival (with four-night hotel stay and full board), featured on podcast, publication, Second: €500, publication, Third: €250, publication, 10 x runners-up: €50, publication
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30/11/2026 |
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, (Add-on: $55 for optional assessment) Prize: Up to 20 winners: Professional developmental edit, copy/line edit. publication
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| DECEMBER 2026 |
01/12/2026 |
Hawkeye Publishing Manuscript Development Prize Open to: Aged 18 plus * OPEN CATEGORY 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: Trade publishing contract with Hawkeye (T&Cs apply) and editing package * OWN VOICES CATEGORY Theme: Reflect an identity or lived experience the author personally holds from a community that is underrepresented or marginalised 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: Trade publishing contract with Hawkeye (T&Cs apply) and editing package
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04/12/2026 |
Somerset National Poetry Prize Open to: All current secondary school students who are Australian citizens or permanent residents attending school or receiving home schooling in Australia under 19 years of age at close of entries Theme: None * Accepts: Junior Secondary - Years 7 to 9 Size: 50 lines Entry Fee: $15 Prize: $300 plus opportunity to attend the Somerset Storyfest and be billeted with members of the Somerset College * Accepts: Senior Secondary - Years 10 to 12 Size: 50 lines Entry Fee: $15 Prize: $300 plus opportunity to attend the Somerset Storyfest and be billeted with members of the Somerset College
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04/12/2026 |
Storyfest National Novella Writing Competition Open to: All current secondary school students attending school or receiving home schooling in Australia under 19 years of age at close of entries Theme: None Accepts: Novella Size: 8,000 - 20,000 words Entry Fee: $20 Prizes: National winner: $300, Finalists x 3: $100 plus opportunity to attend the Somerset Storyfest and be billeted with members of the Somerset College
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31/12/2026 NEW LISTING |
Rhiza Teen Author Prize Open to: Aspiring writers who are Australian citizens or residents aged 13 to 19 Theme: None Accepts: Manuscript Size: Picture Books: 500 words Junior Fiction: 20,000 words Middle Fiction: 10,000 - 40,000 words Young Adult Fiction: 40,000 to 75,000 words Entry Fee: $25 Prizes: Up to 2 winners: Mentorship to develop manuscript for publication. If a publishing contract is offered, advances against manuscript, Short Listed: Appraisal Service
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| JANUARY 2026 |
28/01/2027 NEW LISTING |
Next Generation Short Story Awards US/CANADIAN COMPETITION Open to: All Themes/Categories: African American Animals/Pets BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour) Children's/Juvenile Crime Fairy Tales Family/Parenting Fantasy General Fiction (2,000 to 3,500 words) General Fiction (3,500 to 5,000 words) General Fiction ( Under 2,000 words) General Non-fiction Health/Wellness/Lifestyle Historical Horror/Scary stories/Paranormal Humour Inspirational LGBTQ+ Mystery Poetry Relationships Romance Science Fiction Social Change Spiritual/Religious Survival/Overcoming Adversity Suspense/Thriller Wild card (for stories that don't fit any other category) Accepts: Short Story Size: 5,000 words Entry Fee: $USD 25, $USD 20 for each additional category entered for the same story Prizes: Category winners: $USD 75 & gold medal, Overall First: $USD 500 & trophy, Overall second: $USD 300, Overall Third: $USD 200
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31/01/2027 NEW LISTING |
Dolors Alberola Poetry Prize SPANISH COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Poetry collection Size: 500 - 800 verses or lines Entry Fee: Nil Prizes: First: Translation to another European language, Publication of the collection (bilingual), 50 copies, royalties, Finalists: Publication (Spanish edition), 10 copies, royalties
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| FEBRUARY 2027 |
28/02/2027 NEW LISTING |
Flash 500 Short Story Competition UK COMPETITION Open to: All Theme: None Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,000 - 3,000 words Entry Fee: £7, £12 for 2, £16 for 3, £20 for 4 (optional critique: £30) Prizes: First: £500, Second: £200, Third: £100
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| MARCH 2027 |
31/03/2027 NEW LISTING |
FAW Tasmania Nairda Lyne Award Open to: All Theme: Suitable for children aged 8-12 years Accepts: Short Story Size: 1,000 words Entry Fee: $5 Prizes: $100 & winner's name inscribed on a plaque in the State Library Launceston Branch, Best Tasmanian Entry: Hobart Bookshop voucher
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