COMPETITIONS

UPDATED 01/09/2026

The following information has been extracted from other websites and no assurance can be given as its correctness.

Give your hard work the best chance to win, make sure that you follow the entry requirements! 

If the entry conditions don't specify it, then generally you can submit the same entry to different competitions at the same time - but if your entry places in one then you should inform the organisers of the other competitions. It is then up to them whether your entry is disqualified or not.

Double-check closing dates, particularly if the organiser is in another time zone

 

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.


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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)


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


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


 

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)


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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
PrizesFirst: $US 5,000, Second: $US 2,500


 

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


 

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


 

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



 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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 


 

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
PrizeFirst: $125
*
Accepts: Section 2 - Poetry - Yrs 9 & 10
Size: 50 lines
Entry Fee: $5
PrizeFirst: $100
*
Accepts: Section 3 - Poetry - Yrs 7 & 8
Size: 40 lines
Entry Fee: $5
PrizeFirst: $90
*
Accepts: Section 4 - Poetry - Yrs 5 & 6
Size: 40 lines
Entry Fee: $5
PrizeFirst: $70
*
Accepts: Section 5 - Poetry – Yrs 3 & 4
Size: 30 lines
Entry Fee: $5
PrizeFirst: $50
*
Accepts: Section 6 - Poetry - Yrs 1 & 2
Size: 20 lines
Entry Fee: $5
PrizeFirst: $30


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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 


 

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


 

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 


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 

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


 


 
 
   

Website Created & Hosted with Doteasy Web Hosting Canada