4 competitions for short story writers

Writing competitions can be a great motivational tool. Do you have a story idea that you would love to explore further? A neglected draft patiently waiting for you on your computer? Why not enter these short story competitions and use the submission deadline to your advantage. You may even find that your writing improves as a result. As author Larry Niven says, “You learn by writing short stories. Writing short stories keeps your writing lean and pointed.” Plus throw in the added incentive of a prize and it's win-win! Enter these beauties today.

1. Emerging Writers' Prize 2016

Submissions due 30 June 2016

From the media release:

Open to emerging writers across Australasia, this prize accepts short stories and poems responding to the theme “Tat Tvam Asi” – a Hindu concept meaning “I am you, you are me.” The competition is offered in partnership with the Australasian Association of Writing Programs (AAWP) and the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival (UWRF).

Entries should not exceed 30 lines (poetry) or 3000 words (prose). The winner will receive a ticket to the UWRF in Bali, accommodation for the duration of the festival and $500 towards economy airfares.

Visit the Australasian Association of Writing Programs for more information and to enter.

2.  The ESU-Roly Sussex Short Story Award 2016

Submission closing date is 29 July 2016

From the media release:

The competition is one of the most prized Literary Awards and is designed to foster original creative writing of outstanding quality, including experimental, challenging or thought provoking work.

Entries must not exceed 3000 words.

First prize is $7,500 and second prize is $1,500.

In the secondary school category, the winner will receive $1000 and second place will win $500.

For further details on entering, check out the ESU website.

3.  Canberra Speculative Fiction Guild Short Story Competition 2016

Submissions close midnight, 31 July 2016

From the media release:

We want your stories of 4000 words or under, in any speculative fiction genre, on this year's theme “red fire monkey”.

The competition is open to all Australian residents and members of either the Canberra Speculative Fiction Guild or Conflux 12.

First prize is $200 and a 2017 Conflux membership.

For more information visit the CSFG website.

4. Lane Cove Literary Awards 2016

Submissions due 24 August 2016.

From the media release:

The Awards foster Australian writing, encourage creative endeavour and enhance the literary reputation of Lane Cove.

Australian writers over 16 years of age are invited to submit unpublished works for the following prizes:

Short Story Prize $2,000

Travel Story Prize $1,500

Poetry Prize $1,500

For more information, please see Lane Cove Council's website.