Young writers under the age of 25 are encouraged to enter the competition to share in $5,500 in prize money and have the opportunity to be published online and in the December issue of Voiceworks magazine.

The prize is judged by John Marsden himself, and Hachette Australia, who donate the prize money.

There are two categories open to young writers across two age ranges:

• Short fiction or first chapter of a novel (up to 3,000 words) by writers aged 18-24
• Poetry by writers aged 18-24

• Short fiction or first chapter of a novel (up to 3,000 words) by writers aged under 18
• Poetry by writers aged under 18

Prizes

The first place winner of the Short Story prize (18 – 24) wins $3,000 and a manuscript assessment or mentoring session with staff from Hachette Australia.

The first place winner of the Poetry Prize (18 – 24) wins $1500.

The first place winners of both the Poetry and the Short Story Prize (under 18) receive $500 each.

First place winners are also published in the December issue of Voiceworks #102 while second and third place winners, as well as those with honourable mentions, are published on the Express Media website.

Click here for more information and to enter this year’s prize.