A new chapter begins: Major fellowship opportunity opens to elevate NSW writers

Designed and delivered in partnership with Writing NSW, 10 Fellowship recipients will each receive $50,000 funding, combined with the essential industry support to help progress their work from page to publication and performance.  

Pairing financial support with professional development relevant to their career stage, these fellowships will equip literature practitioners to develop new work and flourish within a supportive creative community.  

The opportunity is open to NSW-based prose writers, poets, illustrators, graphic novelists, and playwrights, at every career stage - with four fellowships for emerging creatives, three mid-career fellowships and three fellowships for established literature creatives. Emerging practitioners will benefit from structured mentorship and professional development to build industry knowledge, while mid-career and established practitioners will benefit from dedicated time and financial support to undertake major creative work.  

To ensure under-represented voices are heard and celebrated, the program has been developed to be inclusive and accessible for First Nations writers, culturally-diverse practitioners and those living in Western Sydney, regional and remote NSW who often face additional barriers to access.  

Applications are now open until Monday 27 July 2026. Applicants will be competitively and independently assessed by members of Create NSW’s Literature Artform Board. For more information and to apply, visit writingnsw.org.au  

This major initiative was co-created with the sector and fulfils a commitment in the NSW Government’s Stories Matter: A Writing and Literature Strategy for NSW. It follows the delivery of other strategy commitments including the Creative Journalism Fellowship Program and the establishment of The Rocks Creative Terraces Affordable Residency Program. Learn more about how the NSW Government is supporting NSW's authors, playwrights, illustrators and literature practitioners at create.nsw.gov.au.  

Create NSW Executive Director, Kerri Glasscock said:    

“NSW writers and creatives are the backbone of our literary ecosystem, bringing local stories to life on the page, on stage, and on screen. Their work connects with audiences of all ages, across every genre, and helps instil a life-long love of reading and storytelling. But without the support to create, connect and thrive, many talented writers risk missing the chance to tell their stories in ambitious, contemporary and impactful ways.  

“This new fellowship initiative is an investment in the long-term future of a creative community that sits at the heart of NSW’s cultural life.”  

Writing NSW CEO Sophie Groom said:  

“For many writers, illustrators and playwrights, the biggest barrier to creating ambitious new work is simply the lack of sustained time and financial security. These fellowships recognise that creative work needs both investment and professional support to flourish.  

“What makes this program especially significant is its commitment to supporting writers across career stages and across NSW, while also surrounding fellows with the industry connections and creative community that help literary careers endure.”  

“Writing NSW is proud to partner with Create NSW to develop and deliver this program that invests not only in individual creatives, but in the enduring strength and diversity of literary culture in NSW.”  

About Writing NSW  

Writing NSW is the state’s leading provider of services to writers, including courses, seminars and workshops, writing groups, festivals and events, grants and prizes, and information and advice. A not-for-profit organisation formerly known as the NSW Writers’ Centre, we have been providing quality support to the writers of our state since 1991.  writingnsw.org.au