Editor and CEO

Dr Georgina Arnott joined Australian Book Review as Assistant Editor in 2022 after a career in academic research in Australian history, biography, and literary studies. She has a PhD in History and an MA in Literary Studies. Georgina has been published as a book reviewer, essayist and author. Her first book, The Unknown Judith Wright (UWAP, 2016), was shortlisted for the National Biography Award in 2017, and she is the editor of Judith Wright: Selected Writings (La Trobe University Press, 2022). In 2021 she was named an ABC Top 5 Humanities Scholar.

Assistant Editor

Will Hunt is Assistant Editor at Australian Book Review. In 2023, Will interned at ABR through the magazine’s partnership with Monash University, before joining ABR as a digital publishing assistant and then as Assistant Editor in 2024. Will is passionate about Australian literature, high-standard criticism, and the continuing development of the humanities in Australia. 

 Peter Rose Editorial Cadet

Carissa Chye joined Australian Book Review as the inaugural recipient of the Peter Rose Editorial Cadetship. She holds a PhD in English Literature from the University of Sydney, where her research explored Frank O’Hara and the New York art scene of the 1940s. She also holds a Master of Creative Writing, Editing, and Publishing from the University of Melbourne.

Finance Manager

Kate Harrison joined Australian Book Review as the Finance Manager in August 2025. She is the former General Manager of The Unconformity and Island magazine, co-founder of Read Tasmania, and the inaugural representative for Literature on the Tasmanian Minister for the Arts’ Arts and Culture Advisory Council.

Administration Support

Annabella McManus-Cowie provides administrative support for Australian Book Review. After completing her Monash internship with ABR in 2024, she has been working with ABR provide consistent support to subscribers. Annabella is passionate about championing Australian literature and writers and continuing to develop a space for cultural criticism within Australia

Contact

Australian Book Review
Studio 2, 207 City Road, Southbank VIC 3006
T: (03) 9699 8822

Advertising

For information about advertising with ABR, please visit our advertising page.
For our Media Kit, please contact Will Hunt This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Georgina Arnott This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Submissions

For information about submitting to ABR, please visit our Submissions page

Staff

Editor and CEO
Georgina Arnott
Editorial
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(03) 9699 8822

Assistant Editor
Will Hunt
Editorial, Advertising
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(03) 9699 8822

Finance Manager
Kate Harrison
Finance
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Donations, Patrons and Bequests
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Administration Support

Annabella McManus-Cowie
Subscriptions and Stockists
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Letters to the Editor

We welcome succinct letters and website comments. All letters and online comments are edited before publication in the magazine. Time and space permitting, we will print any reply from the reviewer with the original letter or comment. Correspondents must provide a telephone number or email address for verification.

Send all letters and inquiries to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Location

ABR’s office is located within Boyd, the Southbank community hub. Boyd is at 207 City Road, near the intersection of Queensbridge Street and proximate to the Kings Way overpass. It is a large, distinctive Victorian building, and is the heritage-listed site of the former J.H. Boyd Girls’ High School. Boyd is easily accessible by tram, the closest routes being the 58 (Stop 114, City Road/Queensbridge Street) and the 12 (Stop 126, City Road). It is approximately a fifteen-minute walk from Flinders Street Station. On-street metered parking is available on Balston Street and Kavanagh Street, and there are several paid carparks in the area.

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Chairperson

Sarah Holland-Batt is Chair of ABR. Sarah, who joined the Board in 2017, is the first Queenslander to hold this position – and our youngest Chair to date. Her most recent poetry collection is The Jaguar (UQP, 2022). She won the 2016 Prime Minister’s Literary Award for Poetry for The Hazards (UQP, 2015). She is the recipient of a Sidney Myer Creative Fellowship, fellowships at MacDowell and Yaddo colonies in the United States, and an Australia Council Literature Residency at the B.R. Whiting Studio Library in Rome, among other honours. She presently works as a Professor in the Creative Industries Faculty at QUT.

Deputy Chair

Geordie Williamson

Treasurer

Blayney Morgan

Board Members

Graham Anderson
Professor Katie Stevenson
Professor Lynette Russell AM

ABR currently welcomes pitches for commentary essays on topics of political and cultural moment – ones that would complement ABR’s increased focus on long-form journalism. We are keen to hear from writers with diverse backgrounds, interests and expertise. Please send succinct pitches to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Contact

Georgina Arnott, Editor of ABR: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Please read all information below before getting in touch.

Is ABR open to new writers?

Australian Book Review has a long and proud history of publishing emerging writers and critics with diverse backgrounds and interests. Each year we publish around 300 people from around Australia. Of them, usually about eighty are new to the magazine – a measure of our openness to new voices and talent.

If you want to write for ABR, please read this Advice for New Reviewers in which we summarise what we look for in reviewers and suggest how you should approach the magazine. This is intended to be a practical and encouraging document.

In a separate document –  Advice for New ABR Contributors – we set out how we work with our writers and what we offer them.

Before you approach ABR, you should get to know the magazine if you are not already familiar with it. Find out if its style and content suit your work. If you don't subscribe, buy a few issues or think about subscribing. We look for many things in new writers – punctuality, professionalism, cultural engagement – but we also seek people with an understanding of ABR’s style, content, and direction.

Is ABR Arts looking for new contributors?

ABR Arts covers all the arts – film, theatre, music, dance, art exhibitions, festivals, etc. We pay for everything we publish, and we are publicly committed to increasing our rates when we can. All reviews appear promptly online; some later appear in the print edition.

ABR is always looking for discerning critics and arts journalists. This document – Advice for new ABR Arts contributors– sets out what we offer our journalists, how we work with them, and what we require from them in return.

We welcome expressions of interest from arts journalists.

Does ABR pay its writers?

ABR pays for everything it publishes – print or online. ABR is a proud advocate for young writers and a keen defender of critical standards.

Does ABR accept poetry submissions?

ABR is not currently accepting poetry submissions. 

However, you may consider submitting your poem to the Peter Porter Poetry Prize (worth a total of $10,000). 

Does ABR accept short story submissions?

ABR is not currently accepting submissions of non-Jolley short stories.

However, you may consider submitting your story to the ABR Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize (worth a total of $12,500).

Review copies

Australian Book Review welcomes the interest of publishers and self-published authors and encourages them to familiarise themselves with our publication. While ABR receives many books and cannot commission reviews of them all, we welcome unsolicited review copies of titles that meet ABR’s interests and purview.

Please send books to ABR:

Australian Book Review
Studio 2, 207 City Road
Southbank, VIC 3006

We may ask you for PDFs of certain titles that are especially time-sensitive or that are destined for reviewers in distant locations.

Advertising

ABR welcomes advertising and offers a variety of platforms and packages to suit different marketing strategies and budgets. This includes advertising in print, on our website, in our regular e-newsletters, and on our weekly podcast. ABR would be delighted to discuss circulation figures and characteristics, art requirements, timelines, prices, and package options. Please contact Georgina Arnott at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Will Hunt on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

ABR Podcast

ABR’s weekly podcast features a mix of reviews, as read by the reviewer, and interviews with ABR contributors and book authors. While we welcome interest in the ABR podcast from publishers and are open to pitches from them, ABR commissions and produces all content on its podcast. 

How do publishers have their books reviewed in ABR?

ABR encourages publishers and self-published authors to consider whether their book would be suitable for reviewing in ABR by familiarising themselves with the publication. We do not commission reviews for payment or in exchange for advertising.

If you would like a book from your publishing house or independent press to be considered for review, please fill out the form below and send it with a copy of the book to the ABR postal address. Due to the volume of submissions and our small staff, we cannot guarantee a review and nor do we contact you personally to advise on the commissioning status

• Review submission form

Australian Book Review (founded in 1961) was revived in 1978. It is one of Australia’s longest-standing major cultural magazines, presenting high-quality journalism and new writing for the widest possible audience. It engages with all the arts, not just literature. It is diverse in terms of content, writers, and partners, and provides a needed forum for new Australian writers and reviewers. ABR is committed to raising the standard of cultural criticism in Australia.

You can help to entertain and edify generations of new readers. Have you considered making a gift in your will to ABR? What better way is there to make a long-term contribution to our literary culture? Bequests help us to offer literary prizes, to commission more new writing and literary journalism, to fund literary fellowships, to increase payments to writers, and to broaden our internship program for bright young writers and editors.

If you would like to discuss making a gift in your will to ABR, please contact the Editor and CEO Georgina Arnott: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or telephone (03) 9699 8822.

Bequests and notified bequests to ABR

Gillian Appleton
Ian Dickson AM
John Button (1933-2008)
Peter Corrigan AM (1941-2016)
Dr Kerryn Goldsworthy
Kimberly Kushman McCarthy and Julian McCarthy
Dr Ann Moyal AM (1926-2019)
Peter Rose
Dr Francesca Jurate Sasnaitis
John Scully
Denise Smith
Anonymous (3)

The ABR Patrons Program has transformed the magazine and greatly benefited Australian writers and freelance writers. At a time of real financial difficulty for many writers and diminishing paid freelance work elsewhere, our generous Patrons have enabled us to increase our payments substantially, to diversify our programs, and to foster brilliant new writing. We pay for everything we publish, and we are committed to increasing our current payment rates. If you wish to discuss the ABR Patrons Program, please contact Georgina Arnott at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (03) 9699 8822.

ABR – Australia’s leading literary magazine since 1961 – is a stylish and dynamic publication. Our support for writers and reviewers takes many forms: increased payments, scrupulous editing, public advocacy, talks and workshops, active marketing and PR, and exposure to our international audience. 

ABR is an independent not-for-profit organisation fully dependent on money raised from subscribers, donors, foundations, government, and advertising. ABR is a bona-fide Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR). All donations of $2 or more are tax deductible. To donate to ABR, click here.

In recognition of our Patrons’ continuing generosity, ABR records multiple donations cumulatively. Our full list of current ABR Patrons can be found below. 

ABR Patrons support the next generation of writers 

ABR Patrons support

 •  New creative and critical writing
 •  Increased payments for writers
 •  Three annual literary prizes
 •  Literary fellowships
 •  National arts coverage through ABR Arts
 •  Rising Stars program for emerging writers
 •  ABR Editorial Cadetships
 •  Expanding ABR’s digital archive

Advertising in Australian Book Review is the perfect way for you to promote your books, festivals, performances, exhibitions, events and other products to our discerning, affluent, arts-loving, book-buying readers.

There has never been a better time to advertise with Australian Book Review. Thanks to our suite of international literary prizes, our vibrant events program, our popular website and digital edition, and our themed issues, our profile has never been higher. Our circulation and readership are steadily growing.

Media Kit

For rates, specifications, and more about our readers, download The ABR Media Kit

For all advertising enquiries, please contact:

Will Hunt, Assistant Editor
(03) 9699 8822
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Georgina Arnott, Editor and CEO
(03) 9699 8822
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Terms and Conditions

Australian Book Review reserves the right to refuse or withdraw from publication any advertising at any time that, in the opinion of Australian Book Review, is illegal, defamatory, offensive, obscene and/or contrary to the business interest, goodwill and/or reputation of Australian Book Review. No responsibility will be taken for delayed publication due to outside factors, such as printing or shipping. Cancellations must be made by the booking date of the month prior to publication; bookings cancelled after this date will be charged the full advertising fee. Payment for bookings is strictly 30 days net, unless otherwise arranged with ABR.

The ABR Patrons

ABR gratefully acknowledges the support of its Patrons  

Generous donations from Patrons have transformed Australian Book Review in recent years, with major benefits for Australian writers and readers. These donations have enabled us to expand our programs, to diversify the magazine, and to be more ambitious and outward-looking. Most importantly, we have increased our payments to contributors at a time when paid freelance opportunities are relatively few. Our three literary prizes, our several Fellowships, and ABR Arts are only possible because of cultural philanthropy. With support from Patrons we look forward to preserving and improving the magazine for many years to come. In recognition of our Patrons’ continuing generosity, ABR records multiple donations cumulatively.

If you wish to discuss the ABR Patrons Program, please contact Georgina Arnott at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (03) 9699 8822. 

_______________________________

Welcome to the ABR contributor list. Here you will find a list of all the contributors who have written for ABR since 1978 and the issue numbers in which they were published.

1978 (issue number 1–7)
1979 (8–17)
1980 (18–27)
1981 (28–37)
1982 (38–47)
1983(48–57)
1984 (58–67)
1985 (68–77)
1986 (78–87)
1987 (87–97)
1988 (98–107)
1989 (108–117)
1990 (118–127)
1991 (128–137)
1992 (138–147)
1993 (148–157)
1994 (158–167)
1995 (168–177)
1996 (178–187)
1997 (188–197)
1998 (198–207)
1999 (208–217)
2000 (218–227)
2001 (228–237)
2002 (238–247)
2003 (248-257)
2004 (258-267)
2005 (268-277)
2006 (278–287)
2007 (288–297)
2008 (298–307)
2009 (308–317)
2010 (318–327)
2011 (328–337)
2012 (338–347)
2013 (348–357)
2014 (358–367)
2015 (368–377
2016 (378–387)

This list will be regularly updated every six months to include contributors to new issues. If you are interested in writing for Australian Book Review, you can find all the relevant information here. 

A ¦ B¦ C¦ D¦ E–F¦ G–H¦ I–K¦ L–M ¦ N–P ¦ Q–S¦ T–Z

Our Annual Review showcases major highlights of ABR's publishing year and features key programs such as events, prizes, fellowships, and our philanthropy program.

ABR Annual Review 2018

ABR Annual Review 2017

ABR Annual Review 2016

ABR Annual Review 2015

ABR Annual Review 2014

Welcome to the ABR contributor list for the first series (1961–74). Here you will find a list of all the contributors who have written for ABR since 1961–74 and the issue numbers in which they were published. You can download the PDF of the list here:

Contributor_List_for_First_Series

Below is the list of issue numbers for that period. As you will see, the original series was organised into volumes until September 1969, where the issues were organised by month and year.

Vol. 1 No. 1 November 1961
Vol. 1 No. 2 December 1961
Vol. 1 No. 3 January 1962
Vol. 1 No. 4 February 1962
Vol. 1 No. 5 March 1962
Vol. 1 No. 6 April 1962
Vol. 1 No. 7 May 1962
Vol. 1 No. 8 June 1962
Vol. 1 No. 9 July 1962
Vol. 1 No. 10 August 1962
Vol. 1 No. 11 September 1962
Vol. 1 No. 12 October 1962
Vol. 2 No. 1 November 1962
Vol. 2 No. 2 December 1962
Vol. 2 No. 3 January 1963
Vol. 2 No. 4 February 1963
Vol. 2 No. 5 March 1963
Vol. 2 No. 6 April 1963
Vol. 2 No. 7 May 1963
Vol. 2 No. 8 June 1963
Vol. 2 No. 9 July 1963
Vol. 2 No. 10 August 1963
Vol. 2 No. 11 September 1963
Vol. 2 No. 12 October 1963
Vol. 3 No. 1 November 1963
Vol. 3 No. 2 December 1963
Vol. 3 No. 3 January 1964
Vol. 3 No. 4 February 1964
Vol. 3 No. 5 March 1964
Vol. 3 No. 6 April 1964
Vol. 3 No. 7 May 1964
Vol. 3 No. 8 June 1964
Vol. 3 No. 9 July 1964
Vol. 3 No. 10 August 1964
Vol. 3 No. 11 September 1964
Vol. 3 No. 12 October 1964
Vol. 4 No. 1 November 1964
Vol. 5 No. 1 November 1965
Vol. 5 Nos. 2 & 3 December/January 1965-66
Vol. 5 No. 4 February 1966
Vol. 5 No. 5 March 1966
Vol. 5 No. 6 April 1966
Vol. 5 No. 7 May 1966
Vol. 5 No. 8 June 1966
Vol. 5 No. 9 July 1966
Vol. 5 No. 10 August 1966
Vol. 5 No. 11 September 1966
Vol. 5 No. 12 October 1966
Children’s Book and Educational Supplement 1966 (CS66)
Vol. 6 No. 1 November 1966
Vol. 6 (Nos. 2 & 3) December/January 1966-67
Vol. 6 No. 4 February 1967
Vol. 6 No. 5 March 1967
Vol. 6 No. 6 April 1967
Vol. 6 No. 7 May 1967
Vol. 6 No. 8 June 1967
Vol. 6 No. 9 July 1967
Vol. 6 No. 10 August 1967
Vol. 6 No. 11 September 1967
Vol. 6 No. 12 October 1967
Children’s Book and Educational Supplement 1967 (CS67)
Vol. 7 No. 1 November 1967
Vol. 7 Nos. 2&3 December 1967/January 1968
Vol. 7 No. 4 February 1968
Vol. 7 No. 5 March 1968
Vol. 7 No. 6 April 1968
Vol. 7 No. 7 May 1968
Vol. 7 No. 8 June 1968
Vol. 7 No. 9 July 1968
Vol. 7 No. 10 August 1968
Vol. 7 No. 11 September 1968
Vol. 7 No. 12 October 1968
Children’s Book and Educational Supplement 1968 (CS68)
Vol. 8 No. 1 November 1968
Vol. 8 Nos. 2 & 3 December 1968/January 1969
Vol. 8 No. 4 February 1969
Vol. 8 No. 5 March 1969
Vol. 8 No. 6 April 1969
Vol. 8 No. 7 May 1969
Vol. 8 No. 8 June 1969
Vol. 8 No. 9 July 1969 (Children’s Book and Educational Supplement)
Vol. 8 No. 10 August 1969
September 1969 (9:69)
October 1969 (10:69)
November 1969 (11:69)
December 1969 / January 1970 (12:69)
February 1970 (2:70)
March 1970 (3:70)
April 1970 (4:70)
May 1970 (5:70)
June 1970 (6:70)
July 1970 (Children’s Book and Educational Supplement) (7:70)
August 1970 (8:70)
September 1970 (9:70)
October 1970 (10:70)
November 1970 (11:70)
December 1970 / January 1971 (12:70)
February 1971 (2:71)
March 1971 (3:71)
April 1971 (4:71)
Volume 10 Winter Issue (now quarterly) including Children’s Book Supplement ’71 (7:71)
Volume 10 Spring Issue (11:71)
Volume 10 Summer Issue (2:72)
Volume 11 Autumn Issue (5:72)
Volume 11 September 1972 (9:72)
Volume 11 December 1972 (12:72)
Volume 11 April 1973 (4:73)
Volume 11 July 1973 (7:73)

In creating the ABR Laureateship our intentions are twofold: to celebrate our finest writers, but also to advance the work of a younger writer admired by the Laureate. Accordingly, we invited the Laureate to nominate an ABR Laureate’s Fellow, who will work closely with the Editor over a period of weeks or months, and who will give the magazine a substantial work for publication – an essay, a suite of poems or long poem, a short story, or a memoir.

Sheila Fitzpatrick (2023)

Professor Sheila Fitzpatrick is a distinguished historian of modern Russia and migration. Her many books include White Russians, Red Peril: A Cold War history of migration to Australia (2021) and The Shortest History of the Soviet Union (2022). Her many awards include the Prime Minister’s Literary Award for On Stalin’s Team (2015). She was based in the United States for many years, latterly as Distinguished Service Professor at the University of Chicago, before her return to Australia in 2012. Since 2013, when she began writing for ABR, she has contributed 26 articles. She brings immense scholarship and brio to everything she writes, and she is among ABR’s most popular writers. Sheila Fitzpatrick’s chosen ABR Laureate’s Fellow, Dr Ebony Nilsson, will contribute a series of articles to ABR over the coming year, funded by the ABR Patrons.

Robyn Archer (2016)

Robyn Archer – a performer and writer of many accomplishments – is an internationally renowned exponent of classic European cabaret. Audiences here and abroad have relished her inimitable voice, artistry, and superlative diction. In addition to her writing and artistic work, she has directed numerous arts festivals, including Adelaide and Melbourne. She is a ceaseless advocate for the arts and a respected mentor to new generations of artists and artistic directors. Robyn Archer will nominate an ABR Laureate’s Fellow, who will work closely with the Editor on a substantial work for publication. The Fellow will receive $7,500, courtesy of the ABR Patrons.

David Malouf (2014)

David Malouf was named as the inaugural ABR Laureate in April 2014. He is one of our most distinguished authors, with an internationally renowned body of work in fiction, poetry, essays, libretti, and memoir. The Laureateship reflects the Editor’s and the Board’s high regard for David Malouf’s artistry, for his principled and eloquent advancement of literature, and for his generosity to readers and writers – and indeed to this magazine. Michael Aiken was chosen as the first ABR Laureate's Fellow and received $5,000 for his Fellowship poem ‘Satan Repentant’, which was published in the August 2016 issue of Australian Book Review.

Support the magazine that supports Australian writers!

ABR champions literature and the arts at a time when many writers’ and artists’ earnings are low. Our support for writers and reviewers takes many forms: increased payments, scrupulous editing, public advocacy, talks and workshops, and exposure to our international audience.

ABR seeks donations to further increase payments to writers, to expand our programs, and to foster brilliant new writing. Your donation – large or small – will help Australian writers.

ABR is an independent not-for-profit organisation fully dependent on money raised from subscribers, donors, foundations, government, and advertising. ABR is a bona-fide Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR). All donations of $2 or more are tax deductible and are much appreciated. Private support is essential for the continued growth of ABR

What do donations support?

Better payments for writers
Three annual literary prizes
Literary fellowships
Fiction and poetry in the magazine
Discounted subscriptions for young readers
National arts coverage through ABR Arts

To donate to ABR, click here.

To find out more about the ABR Patrons Program, click here.

To subscribe to ABR, click here.

2025

Georgina Arnott becomes the seventh Editor
Jonathan Ricketson becomes ABR’s seventh Rising Star
Meredith Stricker wins the Peter Porter Poetry Prize

2024

Jill van Epps wins the ABR Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize
Sam Ryan becomes ABR’s sixth Rising Star
Tracey Slaughter wins the Calibre Essay Prize
Dan Hogan wins the Peter Porter Poetry Prize

2023

ABR publishes the Indigenous issue
Sheila Fitzpatrick becomes ABR’s third Laureate
Tracy Ellis wins the Calibre Essay Prize
Dan Disney wins the Peter Porter Poetry Prize
Rowan Heath wins the ABR Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize

2022

Simon Tedeschi wins the Calibre Essay Prize
First ABR tour of the Adelaide Festival
Anthony Lawrence wins the Peter Porter Poetry Prize 
Tracy Ellis wins the ABR Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize

2021

Sara M. Saleh wins the Peter Porter Poetry Prize
ABR adds an eleventh issue
Theodore Ell wins the Calibre Essay Prize
Camilla Chaudhary wins the ABR Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize

2020

A. Frances Johnson wins the Peter Porter Poetry Prize
Sarah Holland-Batt replaces Colin Golvan QC as Chair
ABR Behrouz Boochani Fellow Hessom Razavi writes about the pandemic
Yves Rees wins the Calibre Essay Prize
Mykaela Saunders wins the ABR Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize

2019

Richard Flanagan’s The Narrow Road to the Deep North is voted the Favourite Australian Novel of the twenty-first century in ABR’s second FAN poll. 
Felicity Plunkett becomes the 2019 ABR Patrons’ Fellow
Andy Kissane and Belle Ling share the Peter Porter Poetry Prize.
Grace Karskens wins the Calibre Essay Prize
Sonja Dechian wins the ABR Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize

2018

ABR celebrates its fortieth birthday
Beejay Silcox becomes the ABR Fortieth Birthday Fellow
Third ABR Cultural Tour (Germany)
ABR Open Letter in support of the ABC signed by 100 writers/commentators/artists/public figures

2017

Four-year funding from the Australia Council
Four ABR Fellowships
Prominent role in the marriage equality campaign including our Open Letter
Michael Heyward is our first Publisher of the Month

2016

New partnership with Monash University
First ABR cultural tour (USA)
Robyn Archer becomes the second ABR Laureate
States of Poetry is launched

2015

Colin Golvan QC succeeds long-time Chair Morag Fraser
First Film & Television issue

2014

Inaugural Environment issue, with the first ABR Eucalypt Fellowship essay by Danielle Clode
Robert Adamson is the first Poet of the Month
David Malouf is named ABR Laureate

2013

Martin Thomas wins the Calibre Essay Prize for his essay “Because it’s your country”: Bringing Back the Bones to West Arnhem Land’ – our best-read online feature to date
Brian Matthews is our first Critic of the Month
Launch of ABR Arts, formerly Arts Update

2012

ABR moves to Boyd Community Hub in Southbank

2011

ABR Online is launched
Gregory Day and Carrie Tiffany share the renamed ABR Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize for their stories 'The Neighbour's Beans' and 'Before He Left the Family'
Patrick Allington is the inaugural ABR Patrons’ Fellow, his Fellowship essay 'What is Australia Anyway?: The Glorious Limitations of the Miles Franklin Literary Award’ appears in the June 2011 issue
Judith Bishop wins the renamed Peter Porter Poetry Prize for her poem 'Openings'

2010

Maria Takolander wins the first ABR Short Story Prize for her story ‘A Roānkin Philosophy of Poetry’

2009

Tim Winton’s Cloudstreet is voted the Favourite Australian Novel in ABR’s first FAN poll. 
Michelle de Kretser is our first subject on Open Page
Mark Gomes becomes the first of many full-time paid interns

2008

Publication of the 300th issue in the second series. The issue includes a birthday feature with an Editorial from Peter Rose and tributes from contributors including Inga Clendinnen, Kerryn Goldsworthy, Richard Walsh, and Clive James.

2007

Elisabeth Holdsworth wins the first Calibre Essay Prize for her essay 'An die nachgeborenen: For those who come after'

2005

Flinders University becomes a sponsor
Stephen Edgar wins the first ABR Poetry Prize for his poem 'Man on the Moon'

2003

Former Editor Kerryn Goldsworthy reflects on the early years of ABR for the 250th issue in the second series

2002

La Trobe University becomes principal sponsor

2001

Peter Rose becomes the sixth Editor
ABR begins publishing new poems
Peter Porter writes at length about Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes

2000

Tributes to Helen Daniel in the November issue
Aviva Tuffield wins the ABR Reviewing Competition

1998

With the closure of the National Book Council,  ABR becomes fully independent
Publication of the 200th issue in the second series
ABR moves to Richmond from Carlton

1995

Helen Daniel becomes the fifth Editor; forum on the Helen Demidenko controversy

1991

David Malouf reviews David Marr’s biography of Patrick White
Robert Dessaix’s influential essay on multiculturalism, ‘Nice Work If You Can Get It’

1989

Rosemary Sorensen becomes the fourth Editor, succeeding Louise Adler

1988

In the 100th issue Manning Clark reviews Kate Grenville’s Joan Makes History

1986

Kerryn Goldsworthy becomes the second Editor

1978

Australian Book Review is revived, with John McLaren as Editor

1982

John Gorton writes about six Australian prime ministers

1961

Australian Book Review is founded in Adelaide by Max Harris and Geoffrey Dutton. This first series, edited by Max Harris and Rosemary Wighton, ran until 1974.

Australian Book Review (ABR), one of Australia’s major cultural magazines, presents high-quality journalism and new writing for the widest possible audience. It engages with all the arts, not just literature. It is diverse in terms of content, writers, and partners. It provides a needed forum for new Australian writers and reviewers, and it is committed to raising the standard of arts criticism in Australia.

ABR is an independent, not-for-profit monthly magazine, governed by an independent Board, managed by a small, skilled editorial and management team, and committed to the publication and promotion of creative and critical writing of the highest standard.

Created in 1961, it lapsed in 1974 and was revived in 1978.

Georgina Arnott is the Editor and CEO and Sarah Holland-Batt is Chairperson of the Board.

ABR publishes reviews, essays, commentaries, interviews and new creative writing. The magazine is national in readership, authorship, distribution, events and partners. It is available in print and online.

Through ABR Arts, ABR engages with all the arts and publishes timely, extended reviews of new films, plays, operas, concerts, dance, festivals, and art exhibitions.

ABR’s diverse programs include three prestigious international prizes, writers’ fellowships worth as much as $10,000, themed issues, national events, cultural tours, and paid editorial internships.

ABR is committed to highlighting the strengths of critical and creative writing around Australia and presenting them to an international audience. We pay for everything we publish – print and online – and our rates have almost trebled in recent years.

ABR is a bona fide Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR). All donations of $2 or more are tax deductible. We have a successful philanthropy program which has helped to transform this magazine in recent years. Our many Patrons are listed elsewhere on the website.

How do arts companies have their productions reviewed in ABR?

ABR publishes timely, extended, knowledgeable reviews of plays, operas, films, concerts of all sorts, dance, festivals and art exhibitions - most of them in Australia, with some from overseas. All reviews appear open-access at ABR Arts. Some later appear in the print edition.

If you would like a production from your company to be considered for review in ABR Arts, please send the relevant information by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Due to the volume of submissions and our small staff, we cannot guarantee a review and nor do we contact you personally to advise on the commissioning status. If a review is commissioned, a link to the review will be sent to you upon publication.

2024

December 2024

Changes at Australian Book Review

December issue highlights

Books of the Year 2024

November 2024

November issue highlights

October 2024

October issue highlights

September 2024

September issue highlights

August 2024

2024 Jolley Prize winner announced

August issue highlights

July 2024

Announcing a new ABR Rising Star

July issue highlights

June 2024

June issue highlights

May 2024

May issue highlights

April 2024

2024 Calibre Prize Shortlist announced 

April issue highlights

March 2024

March issue highlights

January-February 2024

January-February issue highlights

2024 Peter Porter Poetry Prize winner announced

The following photos record key events, prizes, ceremonies, tours, and personalities since 2001. Australian Book Review holds copyright in all these photos but no permission is required to reproduce them. We seek acknowledgment that Australian Book Review is the copyright holder. For higher resolution versions of the images, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

ABR Editor Peter Rose hosts the 2025 Peter Porter Poetry Prize at Readings, Carlton in February 2025.

Peter Rose and Sarah Holland-Batt at an ABR function in Sydney 

Dan Disney, winner of the 2023 Peter Porter Poetry Prize, at ABR

Peter Rose and Sheila Fitzpatrick in conversation at the State Library of Victoria as Fitzpatrick becomes the third ABR Laureate, 2023.

Peter Rose, Sheila Fitzpatrick and Monash Dean of Arts Katie Stevenson at the Laureate event at the State Library of Victoria, 2023.

A. Frances Johnson wins the 2020 Peter Porter Poetry Prize (photograph by David Johns)

Peter Rose interviews ABR Laureate David Malouf in Adelaide, 2019

Lisa Gorton speaks at an ABR function, 2019

Billy Griffiths speaks at an ABR function, 2019

(L-R): Peter Rose with Rae Frances (centre) and Calibre Essay Prize winners David Hansen and Grace Karskens, August 2019

Helen Daniel (Editor of ABR 1995–2000) with Robert Dessaix, a contributor since 1981

Judge Maxine Beneba Clarke and Jolley Prize winner Sonja Dechian at the 2019 Jolley Prize ceremony (photograph by Daniel O'Brien)

2019 Jolley Prize shortlist (L-R): Morgan Nunan, Sonja Dechian, Raaza Jamshed (photograph by Daniel O'Brien)

Peter Rose interviews George Megalogenis at Clunes Booktown Festival, 2019

The 2019 Porter Prize shortlist: Ross Gillett, Mark Tredinnick, Belle Ling, Andy Kissane, and John Foulcher

The 2019 Porter Prize joint winners: Belle Ling and Andy Kissane

ABR Fellow Beejay Silcox in Cairo, Egypt (November, 2018)

John Hawke Morag Fraser Nicholas Wong Peter Rose Porter Prize event 2018

Peter Rose and Sarah Holland Batt at Writers Week 2018 

Peter Rose and Pam Brown at Writers Week 2018

Porter Prize 2017

Christopher Menz leads the 2017 ABR UK tour.

Michael Adams and Darius Sepehri at Calibre Essay Prize event 2017

2017 States of Poetry Tasmania

Peter Rose and Robert Silvers at NYRB 2016

ABR US cultural tour at the Clark Institute 2016

Geraldine Brooks Ambassador Caroline Millar Anna Funder ABR US tour 2016

ABR US tour at Concord 2016

ABR team with Rae Frances at Monash launch 2

Robyn Archer launches the Arts issue 2016

2016 Porter Prize Amanda Joy

ABR Patrons Annual Lecture with Kim Williams 2016

ABR Patrons Annual Lecture 2016 Kim Williams

Ashley Hay visits the ABR office in 2015

ABR Deputy Editor Amy Baillieu edits the first ABR Podcast in 2015.

Jonathan Galassi and Peter Rose at the 2015 Brisbane Writers' Festival

2014 Calibre Essay Prize winner Christine Piper signs the guestbook at ABR.

2014 ABR Patrons' Fellow Shannon Burns

ABR Eucalypt Australia (formerly known as the Dahl Trust) Fellow Danielle Clode at the launch of the Environment issue, 2014

ABR Laureate David Malouf speaks at an ABR event, 2014

Morag Fraser speaks at an ABR event, 2014

Jennifer Down wins the 2014 ABR Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize

Andy Griffiths and Gerald Murnane at an event at Boyd, 2013

Lisa Gorton and Ian Donaldon speak at the first Fireside Chat at Boyd, 2012

Peter Rose, Morag Fraser, and Rodney Hall at opening of Boyd in 2012

ABR moved to Boyd Community Hub in Southbank in 2012

Ian Dickson, Carrie Tiffany, and Gregory Day at the 2011 Jolley Prize ceremony

ABR Board 2011 Ian Donaldson, Paul Hetherington, Anne Edwards, Peter Rose, Editor Morag Fraser, Chair Colin Golvan and Anna Goldsworthy.

Ian Donaldson gives the ABR Fiftieth Birthday Lecture at the National Library of Australia in 2011

The 2003 National Biography Award was shared by Don Watson and Peter Rose

Peter Rose and Peter Porter 2002

Current Editor and CEO of Australian Book Review, Peter Rose

Peter Rose and Terry Cutler at the launch of the 2001 Summer issue

Issue #1, June 1978Australian Book Review is one of the country’s leading cultural magazines. Founded in 1961 in Adelaide and revived in Melbourne in 1978, it is an independent, not-for-profit magazine committed to publishing critical and creative writing of the highest standard. Through its print and digital publishing, website, prizes, fellowships, events, and partnerships, ABR makes a major contribution to Australia’s culture of ideas. 

The magazine publishes in-depth literary and arts reviews as well as new poetry and fiction, essays, commentaries, and interviews. ABR also reviews films, television, music, theatre, opera, dance, festivals, and art exhibitions.

ABR is a strong advocate of proper support and remuneration for freelance reviewers. We pay for everything we publish – print and online – and we pay increasingly well.

ABR is a powerful generator of ideas and creative writing, and a key supporter of fresh talent. Few publications support writers and editors through such varied and lucrative programs.

Editors

First issue, 1961 (series one)First Series

1961 to 1974 - Geoffrey Dutton, Max Harris, and Rosemary Wighton

Second series:

1978 to 1986 - John McLaren
1986 to 1987 - Kerryn Goldsworthy
1988 - Louise Adler
1989 to 1995 - Rosemary Sorensen
1995 to 2000 - Helen Daniel
2001 to 2025 - Peter Rose
2025 to present day - Georgina Arnott

Find out more about ABR Staff, the ABR Board, the ABR Laureates, and contributors to the first and second series. A timeline of major events from ABR’s history can be found here.

ABR Print Publishing

ABR publishes reviews, commentaries, interviews, essays, surveys, and creative writing. In general ABR publishes approximately 500 features in print each year by 300 contributors. Roughly 90 or 100 of these contributors will be new to the magazine. ABR is open to approaches from new contributors and you can find out more here. ABR publishes an annual index of our print content here (from 2017 we have also indexed our digital content). Prior to 2021, ABR published ten issues per year. In June 2021, we added an eleventh issue.

ABR Print Edition Statistics and Gender Breakdown 

Below is a gender breakdown from the print edition between 2014 and 2022. (NB this table only includes information about items published in the print edition. It does not include our wider digital content. Statistics on non-binary contributors are only included when known.)  

Interviews

We have published 181 interviews with a wide range of authors, critics, poets, and publishers including Tim Winton, Maxine Beneba Clarke, Geraldine Brooks, Hazel Rowley, Carmen Callil, and Sheila Fitzpatrick. 

• 94 of these interviews are with women; 87 are with men,
• We have published 17 Critic of the Month interviews, 115 Open Page interviews, 28 Poet of the Month interviews, and 21 Publisher of the Month interviews. 

Surveys

ABR regularly publishes surveys of groups of critics, publishers, and commentators on a range of subjects including the following: Books of the Year, Arts Highlights of the Year, and Publisher Picks. 

The ABR Favourite Australian Novel polls

Back in 2009, when we sought readers’ nominations for the ABR Favourite Australian Novel (any era, any genre), we anticipated goodly interest, ABR readers being a passionate and well-read bunch. But we hadn’t expected to be inundated with quite so many faxes and emails. In the end we received thousands of votes for some 290 Australian novels. Tim Winton’s Cloudstreet, a perennial favourite since its publication in 1991, was the overwhelming favourite – by a margin of three to one to its nearest rival, Henry Handel Richardson’s The Fortunes of Richard Mahony, which was closely followed by Patrick White’s Voss and Winton’s most recent novel, Breath. Particularly heartening was the large number of nineteenth-century novels and those published before the remarkable expansion of fiction publishing in the last quarter of the twentieth century. The following feature, which appeared in the February 2010 issue, lists the top twenty Favourite Australian Novels. 

In 2019 we asked readers to nominate their Favourite Australian Novel published since 2000.

Advocacy and engagement

ABR, though not politically aligned, is an engaged and responsive magazine. From time to time, we publish open letters on key social or political questions. These include an Open Letter on Marriage Equality and an Open Letter on the importance of saving the ABC. 

ABR Online Exclusives

Not all ABR’s publishing appears in the print magazine. We publish a wide range of online exclusives and previews including book and arts reviews, creative writing, essays and interviews, and podcasts. These appear online in ABR Arts, States of Poetry, Reading Australia, ABR Fiction, Book Talk, and ABR Online Exclusives. Some additional articles also appear as online exclusives in recent online issues of the magazine.

Prizes and Programs

ABR presents three prestigious international literary prizes (for poetry, essays and short stories), a vibrant Fellowship program, and a prestigious Laureate’s program. We also offer regular paid Editorial Internships.

Laureates

To recognise the work of distinguished Australian artists, ABR has to date named three ABR Laureates.

• David Malouf (2014)
• Robyn Archer (2016)
• Sheila Fitzpatrick (2023)

Fellows

Since 2011 ABR has awarded twenty-one Fellowships to twelve women and nine men. The Fellows are listed below under the year of publication. Find out more about the Published and current Fellows and read their essays.

ABR Editorial Internships

Since 2009 ABR has awarded eight paid Editorial Internships as part of our highly successful program. The most recent ABR Editorial Intern was Jack Callil.

In 2021, with support from the Judith Neilson Institute for Journalism and Ideas, ABR offered a paid Editorial Cadetship. The first of these ABR Editorial Cadets was James Jiang.

Find out more about past Editorial Cadets and Interns. 

ABR Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize

Since 2010 ABR has awarded the Jolley Prize to fifteen writers (the prize was shared in 2011). Forty-seven writers have been shortlisted for the prize. As with all our prizes the Jolley Prize is judged blind. Since 2010 ABR has shortlisted thirty-five women, eleven men, and one non-binary author. Since the prize was internationalised in 2014 we have shortlisted ten writers from overseas. The winners and shortlisted authors are listed below. Find out more about the past winners of the Jolley Prize and read their stories via our Past Winners page.

Calibre Essay Prize

Since 2007 ABR has awarded the Calibre Essay Prize to twenty-one writers (the prize was shared in 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011). Calibre was internationalised in 2015 and as with all our prizes it is judged blind. Since 2010 the Calibre Prize has been won by eleven men, nine women, and one non-binary author. The winning authors are listed below. In 2017 ABR introduced a second prize and this has been won by six women and one man. Find out more about the past winners of the Calibre Prize via our Past Winners page

Peter Porter Poetry Prize

Since 2005 ABR has awarded the Peter Porter Poetry Prize to twenty-two writers (the prize was shared in 2011, 2017, and 2019) and 101 poems have been shortlisted for the prize. As with all our prizes the Porter Prize is judged blind. Since 2010 ABR has shortlisted fifty-two poems by men and forty-nine poems by women. Since the prize was internationalised in 2014 we have shortlisted twelve writers from overseas. The winners and shortlisted authors are listed below. Find out more about the past winners of the Porter Prize and read their poems via our Past Winners page.

From Prize to Publication

Many past ABR prize shortlisted entrants have gone on to publish full-length works (novels, short story collections, films etc) based on, or including, their shortlisted or winning works. We have listed some of these below.

Reading Australia

ABR commissioned and published twenty-six essays on major Australian writers as part of the Australia Council’s Reading Australia project. These essays are all available open access online.

States of Poetry

Between 2016 and 2018 ABR published nearly four hundred poems by eighty poets as part of States of Poetry, a federally arranged poetry anthology supported by Copyright Agency Limited that also included podcasts. Anthologies were published by poets from New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia, Tasmania, Queensland and the ACT. These anthologies are all open access. The poets and state editors are listed below.

Editorial note

The statistics listed above were last updated on 16 October 2023. The information on this page will continue to be updated and expanded over time.

2024, Vic.

ABR is delighted to name its sixth Rising Star – Sam Ryan, an emerging critic and early career researcher. Sam, who lives in Melbourne, is a PhD candidate at the University ofSam Ryan (photograph by Bonnie Lavelle)Tasmania,where he is working on a thesis on the poetry in Overland and Quadrant. More broadly, he is interested in the genre of literary journal and its place in literary cultures. He has worked in publishing – in various functions – for more than a decade. He is Overland’s digital archivist and has a firm belief in the importance of digital preservation of literary journals. He has written for Australian Book Review, the Australian Journal of Biography and History, Cordite, and The Conversation.

The Rising Stars program – generously funded by the ABR patrons – is intended to advance the careers of younger writers and critics whose earlycontributions to ABR have impressed readers and editors alike.

Peter Rose, Editor of ABR, commented:

I first became aware of Sam Ryan in January 2023 when he interviewed me for a survey of literary journals and organisations funded by Creative Australia and undertaken by the Sydney Review of Books. I was struck by his incisiveness and his digital savvy. Happily and cannily, Sam finds time for freelance reviewing around his PhD studies. Already he has written for us a few times. Sam’s interest in ABR – and its digital ambitions – has impressed us all.

On becoming our latest Rising Star, Sam Ryan commented: 

Australian Book Review is such an important part of Australia’s literary culture, not only in terms of its critical input, which is undeniable, but also for the ways in which it encourages and nurtures new writing. Since working with the magazine, I have been taken aback by the care applied to all its endeavours. Peter Rose has in the past described the journal as ‘entrepreneurial’. I can’t think of a better description, nor can I imagine a more useful attribute in contemporary publishing. To be a part of the magazine – first as a contributor and now as a Rising Star – is truly an honour. I have such a passion for the written word, and I know the positive effect keen criticism has. I look forward to sharpening my writing with ABR’s guidance.

Recent writing for ABR:

Review of The Blue Cocktail by Audrey Molloy
Review of Icaros by Tamryn Bennett and Moon Wrasse by Willo Drummond
Review of 101 Poems by Ron Pretty

2021, QLD

Mindy GillABR is pleased to announce its fifth Rising Star: Mindy Gill. A poet, critic, and former editor-in-chief of Peril magazine (2017–2020), Mindy is currently undertaking a PhD in Creative Writing at Queensland University of Technology. She has won the Queensland Premier’s Young Publishers and Writers Award and the Tom Collins Poetry Prize, as well as a number of prestigious international fellowships. Her collection of poems, August Burns the Sky, was shortlisted for the Thomas Shapcott Poetry Prize.

The Rising Stars program – generously funded by the ABR patrons – is intended to advance the careers of younger writers and critics whose early contributions to ABR have impressed readers and editors alike.

On becoming our latest Rising Star, Mindy Gill commented: 

I am delighted to be named ABR’s fifth Rising Star; the confidence that the magazine has placed in me is an honour. I feel fortunate to write for a publication so dedicated to enriching the marketplace of ideas, especially in a cultural climate as tenuous as this one. But above all, I feel extraordinarily lucky to receive Peter Rose’s mentorship and guidance. Since I began writing for ABR, I have been moved by the staunch support Peter extends to his writers, and how strongly he values and encourages their independence of thought. I look forward to writing criticism that embodies the magazine’s rigour, fearlessness and uncompromising vision, and can think of no better place to cut my teeth as a young writer.

Peter Rose, Editor of ABR, commented: 

ABR is acutely aware of the challenges facing freelance writers (especially younger ones) during the pandemic. The Rising Stars program assumes even greater importance as we mentor our best young writers and critics. Mindy Gill has made a real impression since joining the magazine in 2020. We look forward to working with our new Rising Star.

Recent writing for ABR:

Review of Racism edited by Winnie Dunn, Stephen Pham, and Phoebe Grainer
Review of Revenge: Murder in three parts by S.L. Lim
Review of We Were Never Friends by Margaret Bearman

2021, Vic.

Anders Villani (photograph by Jesper Hede)ABR is delighted to introduce its fourth Rising Star – Anders Villani. Anders began writing for ABR in late 2020, soon after taking part in an ABR publishing masterclass. He holds an MFA from the University of Michigan’s Helen Zell Writers’ Program, where he received the Delbanco Prize for poetry. His first full-length collection, Aril Wire, was released in 2018 by Five Islands Press. A PhD Candidate in Creative Writing at Monash University, he lives in Melbourne; his doctoral research concerns poetic representations of trauma.

The Rising Stars program is intended to advance the careers of younger writers and critics whose early contributions to ABR have impressed readers and editors alike.

On becoming our latest Rising Star, Anders Villani commented: 

What began as an ABR masterclass at Monash University has bloomed into perhaps the most enriching partnership yet in my artistic and intellectual life – and now this extraordinary accolade. Poetry has been at the heart of my involvement with the magazine: as a reviewer; as a creative contributor; and, most recently, as assistant poetry editor. In each of these capacities, I have witnessed and benefited from ABR’s invaluable ongoing commitment to poetry in Australia. As the new Rising Star, I consider it my mandate to deepen that commitment, and I am so excited and honoured to get to work. In a precarious cultural landscape, ABR offers a beacon, as it has for generations. That it has not only survived the pandemic but grown stronger is a testament to its resilience and importance. I could not have wished for a better platform for doing what I love.

Recent writing for ABR:

Review of Prose Poetry: An introduction by Paul Hetherington and Cassandra Atherton
'Marlin', a new poem by Anders Villani
Review of three new poetry collections by Luke Best, Todd Turner, and Angela Gardner 

2020, Vic.

ABR is delighted to name its third Rising Star, Declan Fry. The Rising Stars program is intended to encourage younger writers and critics whose early contributions to ABR have made an impression. We work closely with the Rising Stars, commissioning them often and helping them to enhance their critical work and to advance their careers.

On becoming our latest Rising Star, Declan Fry commented:

We live in a continent rich with stories. Many of these are still being told, and deserve to be widely heard. One of my earliest memories of writing publications was seeing ABR down at the local library. In a difficult environment for the arts, ABR’s support for new and emerging talent is vital. To be able to connect with ABR having never published or worked with literary journals before speaks volumes, especially during the isolation of this pandemic. Opportunities like the Rising Stars initiative are a great privilege – a place to hone your writing practice, and to develop a long-term investment in the work. It gives me a real sense of hope knowing that there is a space for considered, thoughtful analysis. This opportunity would mean nothing without those who have paved the way – our ancestors, Elders, family, mentors, and teachers. They are the original critics and storytellers. We owe them so much. I can’t wait to get started! Much love and stay deadly, ABR.

About Declan Fry

Declan Fry is an essayist, critic, and proud descendant of the Yorta Yorta. Born on Wongatha country in Kalgoorlie, in 2009 he received the Tom Collins Prize in Australian Literature, and, as joint winner, the Todhunter Literary Award in 2013. He currently lives on unceded Wurundjeri and Boon Wurrung land and is a board member of Books ‘n’ Boots, an organisation which distributes football boots and books to remote and regional Aboriginal communities. He first published in ABR in June 2020.

Recent writing for ABR:

Review of After Australia edited by Michael Mohammed Ahmad
Review of Fire Front: First Nations poetry and power today edited by Alison Whittaker
Review of Elephants with Headlights by Bem Le Hunte

Previous Rising Stars

2019, NSW

Alex Tighe

Alex Tighe is a writer and editor, and the winner of the University of Sydney’s 2018 Wentworth Medal essay prize. He is the ABC / Kidney Health Australia’s inaugural Mark Colvin Scholar. 

Recent writing for ABR:

Review of Stop Being Reasonable by Eleanor Gordon-Smith
Review of Delayed Response by Jason Farman
Review of Net Loss by Sebastian Smee

2019, Vic.

Sarah Walker 

Sarah Walker is a Melbourne-based writer, photographer, and fine artist. In 2017 she won the Sydney Road Writer’s Cup and the Sydney Road Storytelling Prize, and was a runner-up in the Darebin Mayor’s Writing Award. She was runner-up in the 2019 Calibre Essay Prize.  

Recent writing for ABR:

Review of Sky Swimming: Reflection on auto/biography, people and place by Sylvia Martin
'Contested breath: The ethics of assembly in an age of absurdity' by Sarah Walker
2019 Calibre Essay Prize (runner-up): 'Floundering' by Sarah Walker 

For all media related enquiries, please contact Pitch Projects on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

ABR Peter Rose Editorial Cadet

Australian Book Review (ABR) is delighted to launch the Peter Rose Editorial Cadetship to honour Peter Rose’s extraordinary contribution to the training of publishing professionals during his quarter century at ABR and to extend this tradition of mentorship into ABR’s exciting next phase. The Peter Rose Editorial Cadetship is generously supported by ABR’s Patrons.

Founded in 1961, ABR is Australia’s premier literary magazine. It is an independent, not-for-profit monthly magazine, governed by an independent Board, managed by a small, skilled editorial and management team, and committed to the publication and promotion of creative and critical writing of the highest standard.

Georgina Arnott is the Editor and CEO and Sarah Holland-Batt is Chairperson of the Board.

ABR publishes reviews, essays, commentaries, interviews and new creative writing. The magazine is national and increasingly international in readership, authorship, distribution, events and partners. It is available in print and online.

About the role

The Cadetship is a part-time (0.8 FTE), twelve-month position, commencing in late July or early August. The Cadet will be paid at $60,000, pro rata, and receive superannuation at 12% of their salary. There is an option for this role to be performed full time if the candidate possesses the requisite interest and experience in philanthropic and development work.

The Cadet will join the magazine at a dynamic time in its long history and will be part of a small, hard-working team committed to publishing high-quality literary journalism and creative writing. Digital publishing will be a priority for the Cadet.

The Cadet will report to the Editor, Georgina Arnott, and will work in the ABR office in Southbank, Melbourne. Key responsibilities will include digital publishing, the ABR Podcast, social media, and editing and proofreading. There is much scope for making a diverse creative   contribution to the magazine.

Applicants must have proficiency in digital technology. Experience in the publishing/magazine/media sector would be an advantage. Applicants must demonstrate familiarity with ABR (its content, style, and ethos). We also look for candidates with knowledge of, and interest in, literature and the arts.

Applicants must have an unrestricted right to work in Australia.

The successful candidate must have completed a university degree or diploma in at least one of the following disciplines: Arts, Journalism, Publishing & Editing, Media & Communication, or possess relevant working experience.

Responsibilities will include: 

• Editing and proofreading
• Publishing content on the ABR website
• Assisting with social media
• Managing the ABR Podcast
• Assisting with ABR Arts
• Helping to attract paid advertisements
• Some administrative duties

Optional responsibilities for this role to be performed in a full-time capacity:

• Philanthropic and development administration

Key criteria:

The successful candidate will possess the following attributes:

• An interest in and knowledge of books, writing, the arts, and ideas, and a passion for strengthening cultural criticism and public conversations
• Excellent writing and/or editing skills and a commitment to developing these further
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and an ability to work across a range of varied tasks in a busy office environment
• Experience with software including Adobe suite (InDesign, Photoshop), Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), CMS software (Joomla or others)
• Proven ability to work independently and respond effectively to direction
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, and the proven capacity to work collaboratively in a small team
• Familiarity with engagement through the strategic use of social media, advertising, and EDMs, and a capacity to perform these tasks diligently and proficiently
• Eagerness to extend ABR’s advertising client base
• A familiarity with Australian Book Review and its operations

Optional:

• An understanding of and commitment to ABR’s patrons, private and government funding programs, and a capacity to perform administration to support these programs with accuracy, sensitivity, and high levels of professionalism

ABR welcomes all applicants. If you do not possess all the attributes listed here but think you could bring relevant skills and capacities to ABR, please consider applying. ABR is committed to maintaining an inclusive, respectful, positive, and effective workplace.

Applicants should address the nine key criteria (and, if relevant, the optional tenth criterion), state why they would like to work for ABR, and include a resume with contacts details for at least two referees and a sample of their writing. Please send your application to ABR Editor Georgina Arnott at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line ‘ABR Editorial Cadetship Application’ by 6pm on Monday 21 July. 

Office Administrator and Bookkeeper

Australian Book Review (ABR) seeks an Office Administrator and Bookkeeper. Founded in 1961, ABR is Australia’s premier literary magazine. It is an independent, not-for-profit monthly magazine, governed by an independent Board, managed by a small, skilled editorial and management team, and committed to the publication and promotion of creative and critical writing of the highest standard.

Georgina Arnott is the Editor and CEO and Sarah Holland-Batt is Chairperson of the Board.

ABR publishes reviews, essays, commentaries, interviews, and new creative writing. The magazine is national and increasingly international in readership, authorship, distribution, events and partners. It is available in print and online.

About the role

ABR is seeking an experienced Office Administrator and Bookkeeper for 3-4 days per week.

The successful candidate will be paid at between $70,000 – $80,000, pro rata, depending on experience. In addition, they will receive superannuation at 12% of their salary.

This role will be performed on the premises, although there may be some flexibility for remote work from time to time. ABR is based in Southbank, Victoria.

Applicants must have an unrestricted right to work in Australia.

The successful candidate will possess strong financial and business literacy, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and be conscientious, hard-working, diplomatic, and highly organised. The primary functions of the role are maintaining ABR’s databases and accounts.

These tasks require attention to detail, personal integrity, and a firm grasp of accounting principles. This is a diverse and stimulating role, working in a small team, but also entailing broad engagement with stakeholders including contributors, editors, interns, subscribers and donors. Some understanding of the cultural environment in which ABR operates would be advantageous.

The Office Administrator and Bookkeeper reports to ABR’s Editor and CEO and will work with ABR’s Treasurer when required.

Key tasks:

• Maintain accurate financial records and manage daily bookkeeping
• Handle accounts payable and receivable, including invoicing, supplier payments, and receipts
• Respond to phone and email enquiries
• Reconcile bank accounts and financial statements
• Process payroll, including superannuation, tax and leave entitlements
• General ledger maintenance
• Update and maintain spreadsheets and databases to support invoicing, staff and contributor payments, and subscriptions
• Prepare up-to-date subscription lists on a monthly basis
• Contribute to the development of orangisational financial documents, including an annual budget and quarterly financial reports
• Provide administrative support as needed, including with partner organisations
• Ensure compliance with all relevant accounting standards, tax regulations and other statutory requirements
• Collaborate effectively with internal team members and external stakeholders while working independently

Key criteria:

1. Proven experience in bookkeeping and accounts management (experience with Xero or Reckon would be advantagenous but is not essential), including invoicing and financial reporting;
2. Strong attention to detail and excellent numerical, analytical and organisational skills;
3. Strong understanding of financial compliance, BAS, super, and payroll;
4. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and a polite and professional manner when responding to phone calls and dealing with stakeholders;
5. Proven ability to work independently and respond effectively to direction;
6. A capacity and interest in working collaboratively across a small team;
7. Eagerness to improve systems, including through the adoption and integration of new software platforms; and
8. Proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite.

Desirable but not essential:

9. A familiarity with Australian Book Review, or previous experience in the arts or media sectors; or
10. Prior experience working in the non-for-profit sector.

ABR welcomes all applicants. If you do not possess all the attributes listed here but think you could bring relevant skills and capacities to ABR, please consider applying. ABR is committed to maintaining an inclusive, respectful, positive, and effective workplace. Applicants should address the key criteria, state why they would like to work for ABR, and include a resume with contacts details for at least two referees. Please send your application to ABR Editor Georgina Arnott at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line ‘ABR Office Administrator and Bookkeeper’ by 6pm on Monday 14 July.