Prime Minister’s Literary Awards now open

Entries are now open for the Prime Minister's Literary Awards. Picture: UNSPLASH

The 2022 Prime Minister’s Literary Awards, which celebrate Australia’s outstanding literary talent, are now open for entries.

The awards are presented in six categories including children’s literature, young adult literature, fiction, poetry, non-fiction, Australian history.

A total prize pool of $600,000 is up for grabs.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said each year the awards attract exceptional entries from our many talented and diverse writers.

“The Prime Minister’s Literary Awards recognise excellence, and every year they showcase to the nation and the world a collection of unique works of great quality and appeal,” he said.

“I strongly encourage Australia’s authors, illustrators, historians and poets to put forward their stories for this year’s Awards, as we celebrate the significant contribution that their works make to our story as a nation.”

Communications Minister Paul Fletcher said the awards importantly recognise and celebrate the diverse role writing plays in shaping Australia’s cultural and intellectual life.

“These awards acknowledge the benefits we all receive from the intense, arduous and sustained creative work done by writers,” Minister Fletcher said.

“Their work entertains, informs and educates. In short, it enriches their readers’ lives.”

Entries close on Friday 4 March and are sought for books published in the 2021 calendar year.

For more information about the awards and to apply, visit arts.gov.au/pmla