creative writing classes fremantle

Welcome to Paper Bird

Where kids book clubs, creative writing and arts workshops bring stories to life..

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Gift Registries

We offer a curated gift registry program, where we work with you to create a beautiful book registry that can be shared with families, friends, and communities., online book store, new releases in-store and online now.

How to Be Your Dog’s Best Friend

by Elena Bulay

Farmhouse by Sophie Blackall

Plant Life by Helene Druvert

Leaf-Light by Trace Bella

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Book Clubs, Writing Workshops, Art Classes, and lots more through here.

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The Paper Bird Speaker’s Agency, Incursions, and our Resources.

Paper Bird is Perth’s only specialist children’s bookshop that is a dedicated arts centre for kids to discover and create stories.

With a finely curated collection of children’s books, showcasing Australian writers and illustrators, and including the most comprehensive Indigenous Australian children’s book selection available across the country.

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Paper bird offers a range of specialist therapeutic services for children and adults..

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Paper Bird Children’s Books & Art

Open every day 9am–5pm

42 Henry Street Fremantle WA 6160

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+61 8 9430 7038

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Flight Studio is your community illustrator space for discovering the marvellous diversity of illustration and finding inspiration and support to create your own. We are here to nurture illustrators, which includes yourself, of course!

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Fremantle Arts Centre runs an extensive Learning program catered to all ages and abilities. We collaborate with over 45 dedicated tutors of various disciplines: all established teachers and many award-winning, prominent and exhibiting artists in their field.

2024 Adults Course Dates Term 1: 5 Feb – 8 Apr Term 2: 22 Apr – 20 Jun Term 3: 22 Jul – 15 Sep Terms 4: 14 Oct – 8 Dec

Kids Courses Kids courses run most days during the term school holidays plus two weeks over the summer and are split into 4 groups: Younger Kids (5-7 years) | Older Kids (8-12 years) | Teens (12-17 years) | Kids + Adults

Course schedules are announced approximately 5 weeks prior to Term commencement via email and website. Sign up to our newsletter here

FAC Members are given priority early access to book their chosen Adults course 1 week prior to general public, as well as a 10% discount on Adults courses. No discount applies to Kids Courses. Find out more about membership here

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Fremantle Arts Centre is situated at Walyalup on Whadjuk Nyoongar Boodjar.

Fremantle Arts Centre is situated at Walyalup on Whadjuk Nyoongar Boodjar. We acknowledge the Whadjuk people as the traditional owners and custodians of these lands and waterways and extend our respect to their Elders, past and present.

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Stay Up to Date

Fremantle Arts Centre is situated at Walyalup on Whadjuk Nyoongar Boodjar.

Fremantle Arts Centre is situated at Walyalup on Whadjuk Nyoongar Boodjar. We acknowledge the Whadjuk people as the traditional owners and custodians of these lands and waterways and extend our respect to their Elders, past and present.

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LOVE TO READ LOCAL LITERARY MAP OF WA

We're between the lines, helping our writing industry thrive, be a part of the next chapter, how can we help, writing wa events, the novel project writing seminar with graeme simsion.

14 May @ 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Join award-winning and best-selling author Graeme Simsion for a three hour writing seminar at the State Library of Western Australia. Graeme Simsion is a bestselling novelist, popular seminar leader and author of The Novel …

Writing WA presents Get Published! Submitting to Agents and Publishers

18 May @ 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Picture this, you’ve completed your novel and are excited about your literary future. You’re about to hit send on your submission. But, spoiler alert, so are many other writers keen …

Fake it ‘til You Make it: Writing WA Networking Brunch

19 May @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Mix things up a little and head along to this relaxed, intimate brunch where you can meet and network with budding and established authors. Talk everything books and publishing over …

Shut Up and Write (Mount Hawthorn)

13 May @ 10:00 am - 12:15 pm

Shut Up and Write is a free weekly event (though you are encouraged to buy at least a coffee). Do you have a writing project, or simply want to carve …

Josh Langley: Book Reading

13 May @ 4:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Come hang out with author Josh Langley and listen to his latest book Thank You: How to turn a grey day into a Yay day! Join us for an intimate …

Creation Stories with Kathryn Heyman and Kate Forsyth

15 May @ 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm

​The Australian Writers Mentoring Program hosts free online conversations with acclaimed writers, focusing on the problems they encountered writing their first and sophomore books, and how they solved them. These …

Longlist Announcement: LTRL Fictional Flashbacks Competition

We’re delighted to announce that the longlist for this year’s Love to Read Local Week Fictional Flashbacks Competition is finally here! This year we had an incredible 137 entries! Congratulations ...

the little journal Featured Authors Announcement

Writing WA and Night Parrot Press are thrilled to unveil the line-up of extraordinary authors featured in the first edition of the little journal! For our speculative fiction issue, we ...

Podstreet: The Writing WA Podcast

Introducing Podstreet: The Writing WA Podcast This is our official Writing WA podcast, featuring West Australian authors, poets, essayists, booksellers, publishers & other industry professionals talking about their new books, ...

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Our popular course in storytelling and creativity

Creative Writing Stage 1 is ideal for writers of all levels who want to learn the secrets to writing compelling fiction.

You will: Indulge your creativity Learn the key skills needed to write engaging stories Receive direct feedback on your own writing Enjoy access to experts who are active in the industry Unlock your storytelling potential!

“As a new writer I found the course perfect for me. It’s given me confidence to continue with my first novel. The course inspired and motivated me – and what you learn is invaluable. My writing improved considerably and my confidence levels increased too.” – Deb Kelly, Creative Writing Stage 1 graduate

See more reviews

Creative writing stage 1 – an overview.

This online course teaches you the foundation techniques needed to create compelling stories. By understanding and using these building blocks, you will become a better writer.

Lessons include:

Discover how to master memorable characters, filling in their backstories and body language, appearance and other quirks to keep readers captivated. You’ll receive feedback on your characterisation and dialogue.

First person? Third person limited? Omniscient narrator? Explore the various types of points of view with which you can tell a story – they all have their advantages and disadvantages! You'll complete exercises and receive feedback on your narrative voice.

Scenes are the building blocks of stories, so learn the secrets of scene construction and editing – how to write descriptions that allow your readers to feel like they’re there. In this lesson you’ll create and receive feedback on an authentic scene that captures this.

Learn how to apply simple techniques to stop your stories from unravelling and, instead, hold a structure that keeps reader interest high from start to finish. You'll explore the vital points of a narrative and receive feedback on writing in different points of view.

Reveal a map through the wilderness of creative writing, with clear instructions for where to go to succeed in the next part of your writing journey. You'll receive feedback on a scene that incorporates all of the techniques you've mastered.

Watch this video to find out why you should enrol in this course now.

Enjoy the benefits of your online classroom

• This course gives you access to your own online classroom, where you’ll be able to connect with other classmates and share your stories with each other in a supportive environment – with people who share your passion!
• Your class also has its own online tutor – on hand and online for any questions you may have and to provide personal feedback on your work . Our tutors are experienced experts with years of knowledge to draw on. They’re your secret weapon!
• Each Monday we’ll release a new learning module in the form of audio lessons, along with handouts and other resources . You can choose to save the audio and listen to it later – perhaps during your favourite walk or in the commute in the car. It’s up to you!
• A fan of 9am starts? Easy. 2pm before the kids get home? Sure. 10pm? 5am? You choose the time and place that best suits your schedule. A practical weekly assignment (assessed by your tutor) will help you stay on track and gauge your progress along the way.

How does the online course work?

• You’ll receive login details to access your online course
• Your course contains five weekly modules, each with audio lessons and handouts
• Each week, you can submit a small assignment and receive feedback from your tutor
• There are no set class times – complete each module when it suits you during the week
• We suggest allowing 3-4 hours per week to complete each module and assignment
• You can post questions and comments in the classroom and get to know your classmates
• You’ll be able to enjoy access to the course for a full year – plenty of time to revisit your lessons and refresh your knowledge whenever you need.

3x monthly Zoom sessions with an award-winning author

• Connect with fellow classmates in real-time.
• Receive Pamela's professional advice on how to pursue your specific writing goals.
• Enjoy access to these bonus sessions for three months from your course start date.

The Write Direction is free to attend and exclusively for Creative Writing Stage 1 students.

Joanna completed Creative Writing Stage 1

– Joanna Nell, now a published author, whose lead character for her debut novel The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village was developed in week 1 of her course…

Joanna has now also published The Great Escape From Woodlands Nursing Home and The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker.

Samera Kamaleddine Graduate of Australian Writers' Centre, author of The Sideways Orbit of Evie Hart and Half My Luck

Megan White Graduate of Australian Writers' Centre, author of The Anatomy of Songs

Shankari Chandran Graduate of Australian Writers' Centre, and winner of 2023 Miles Franklin Literary Award

“Is this course for me?”

Want to write a novel? It all starts here

How to write your novel with awc​.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: I'm totally new to all this. Is this the right course for me? A: Absolutely! It's been designed to give you the foundation skills you need to start writing great fiction –  no previous experience required.

Q: I did creative writing a long time ago, but feel pretty rusty. Should I do this course? A: Yes, we have a lot of people who complete Creative Writing Stage 1 to refresh their skills (and learn plenty of new things). It will provide you with the solid foundations for fiction writing – perfect preparation if you continue on with later courses.

Q: Do I need to have a story or book idea before I start? A: Not at all. This course is about the fundamentals of fiction, common to all good stories. You'll learn the techniques that go into good storytelling and write small scenes each week to cement your skills.

Q: How many others will be in the class – and are they all experienced writers? A: The online classroom is a supportive learning environment and we purposefully keep classes small to make everyone more comfortable (no more than approx 20 per class). Everyone is there to learn and no experience is necessary, so you don't need to worry about being out of your depth.

Q: How does the online tutored class work exactly? A: Each Monday, a new course module will be made available. You can choose any time that week to go through it – there is no set class time. Through the online learning hub, you can chat to classmates and your online tutor and get feedback on your weekly assignments (due each Sunday night).

Q: I'm a busy parent and work full-time. Can I fit this in? A: Most of our students are busy people just like you. This course is flexible so that all you need to find is a few extra hours in the week, not necessarily all at once. You've totally got this!

Q: This is Stage 1… So what is Stage 2? A: Depending on your writing goals, we offer Writing Workout where you can complete exercises to strengthen your core skills over six fortnightly sessions. Or, if you're ready to dive into your own book, our ten-week  Novel Writing Essentials course is ideal. Note that with both courses we recommend you've completed Creative Writing Stage 1 first.

Q: Which one is the creative side of the brain again? I'm always getting it wrong. A: The right side is where the creative magic happens (but hey, the left is important too).

By the end of this course, you will have:

Reviews of creative writing stage 1.

“It's an extremely practical writing course, excellent understandable content and so much fun. I've remembered how much enjoyment I get from writing.”

“I enjoyed the connection with others doing the course and the fact we had a shared goal in mind. I now look at the world in a different way and look forward to writing every day. A great way of developing your writing skills on your own terms.”

Penny Flannery

“Creative Writing Stage 1 was the beginning of my writing career with all its valuable tools, tutors and feedback. Novels are a series of rich scenes with fleshed out characters in vivid settings. This course teaches you exactly that.”

Megan White, author of The Anatomy of Songs

“I think your course is brilliant and it has opened up an opportunity I would like to pursue. I have never really written anything in my life and I have always wanted to do this. It has only taken me about 20 years to work up the courage to have a go. So thanks.”

Peter Downs

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Phone: (02) 9929 0088 Email:  [email protected]

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The City of Fremantle acknowledges the Whadjuk people as the Traditional Owners of the Fremantle/Walyalup area and we recognise their cultural and heritage beliefs are still important today.

Australian Literary Journals and Magazines

A list of journals and magazines which accept poetry, fiction and nonfiction..

Suggestions when submitting:

• Read a copy of the magazine before you submit.
• Read the submission guidelines carefully prior to submitting.
• Note call out dates for special themed issues.
• Join a writer’s organisation to receive regular updates and lists of open submission dates (list below).

Archer Magazine

An award-winning print publication about sexuality, gender and identity.

Aniko Magazine

Aniko Magazine publishes poetry, flash fiction, short stories and creative nonfiction by writers from Australia and around the world.

Arena Online

Provides weekly online commentary on emerging social and political issues. It accepts unsolicited submissions of approximately 800-1200 words.

Aurealis is Australia’s most successful SF/fantasy magazine. They accept fiction, nonfiction, art and book reviews.

Australian Book Review

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.

Australian Multilingual Poetry Project

The Australian Multilingual Project aims to provide a space to showcase some of the linguistic complexity that resists and persists in Australia today. The work they publish demonstrates the linguistic, aesthetic and creative reach of multilingual writing and seeks to interrupt, enhance, challenge, and generally complicate, the flow of English.

Australian Poetry Journal (APJ)

Australian Poetry, established to bring together state-based poetry collectives, publishes the country’s national poetry journal, the Australian Poetry Journal. The Journal, published six-monthly, guest-edited each issue by different voices, to ensure excellence and inclusivity.

Babyteeth Journal

Babyteeth welcomes submissions from almost every artistic medium, photography, audio/spoken word, poetry and prose.

The Big Issue

The Big Issue magazine is a fortnightly, independent magazine sold on the streets by people experiencing homelessness, marginalisation and disadvantage. The magazine publishes articles on a variety of subjects including arts and entertainment, street culture, lifestyle and personal profiles, as well as fiction.

Curiouser Magazine

Accepts poetry, flash fiction and short fiction in the genre of magic realism.They love the fantastical, the horrific, the experimental, the incantatory.

Cordite Poetry Review

Cordite Poetry Review accepts poetry, as well as critical writing and book reviews on Australian and international poetry.

Creatrix is the online journal of poetry and haiku published quarterly by West Australian Poets Inc. (WAPI). Creatrix is concerned with the sharing of WAPI members’ poetry, each quarter some fifty to sixty six per cent of poems submitted are selected ranging from poets who are first timers, to emerging and established poets.

Djed Press is an online publication that exclusively works with and publishes Bla(c)k creatives and other creatives of colour (POC). They accept short fiction, narrative non-fiction/prose, opinion/commentary pieces, poetry (written or performed on video) and visual art in any style.

Frankie is a bi-monthly magazine that celebrates and inspires a community of creatively inclined, curious and kind-hearted people. We feature interviews, rants, research pieces, photography projects and editorial illustrations, all in keeping with the frankie ‘personality’ – smart, funny, friendly, cute, rude, naughty, interested, serious, caring.

Griffith Review

Griffith Review is a leading Australian literary journal offering fresh takes on big ideas. Each quarterly edition is loosely themed around a particular concept, and they accept essays, memoir, short stories and poetry from emerging and established writers.

Going Down Swinging

Going Down Swinging Online publishes fiction, creative nonfiction, experimental/hybrid work, digital and interactive literature, poetry, comics, artworks, spoken word, commentary, and essays.

Hecate Journal

Hecate is an interdisciplinary journal of women's liberation, edited by Carole Ferrier since 1975. They are interested in contributions which employ a Feminist, Marxist or other radical methodology.

Hyades Magazine

Prioritises submissions by BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, disabled and other traditionally marginalised creators, but they’re open to all writers. Accepts poetry, fiction and flash fiction.

InReview - Poet's Corner

Readers’ original and unpublished poems of up to 40 lines can be emailed, with postal address, to [email protected] . Submissions should be in the body of the email, not as attachments.

Island Magazine 

Island is a premium Australian literary magazine of fiction, poetry, nonfiction and arts features.

Kill Your Darlings Kill Your Darlings publishes commentary, essays, memoir, reviews and interviews online, with a particular interest in writing on culture, politics and society with a personal, accessible approach.

Liminal is an anti-racist literary platform that supports and elevates talented writers and artists in celebration of the Asian-Australian experience. Liminal showcases creatives from a wide range of creative disciplines—literature, art, music, journalism, and more.

Mascara Literary Review

A bi-annual literary journal co-founded in 2007, Mascara is particularly interested in the work of contemporary migrant, Asian Australian and Aboriginal writers. Accepts poetry, fiction and non-fiction/criticism.

Meanjin was founded in 1940 and is committed to publishing the best new Australian writing. Menajin publishes Australian fiction, essays, long-form journalism, poetry, memoir, interviews, and much else besides.

Overland is a quarterly print journal (publishing essays, stories and poetry) and an online magazine, publishing non-fiction articles each week day. Overland also occasionally publishes special online editions of fiction and poetry.

The Penny Mint

The Penny Mint is a community for passionate young writers, amplifying new voices and providing a platform to publish, perform and perfect their words. Together, we’re building a space for experimental poetry, spoken word, essays, serialised fiction and everything in between.

Pulch is a WA magazine run by youth, for youth. Writers must be living in WA, or from WA, and be 26 years of age or younger. Accepts fiction, nonfiction, artwork, and interviews.

Quadrant accepts unsolicited, previously unpublished articles that fit within its general profile of a journal of ideas, essays, literature, poetry and historical and political debate. Although it retains its founding bias towards cultural freedom, anti-totalitarianism and classical liberalism, its pages are open to any well-written and thoughtful contribution. Accepts nonfiction articles, fiction and poetry.

Rabbit Poetry

Rabbit is a journal of nonfiction poetry. Rabbit also publishes book reviews, essays, interviews with poets and visual artworks by poets.

Portside Review

Portside Review is a journal from and for the Indian Ocean. It is a new digital space for essays, interviews, reviews, poems, and so much more.

Right Now Magazine

Right Now Magazine is looking for pitches on human rights issues in Australia. They focus on the coverage of current issues through a variety of forms, including: opinion, journalism, fiction,  poetry, reviews of events, multimedia; photography, artwork, video and audio, including spoken word.

The Saltbush Review

The Saltbush Review is a digital literary journal founded in 2021. The journal is edited by English and Creative Writing doctoral candidates and graduates from the University of Adelaide. They are seeking submissions of short fiction, creative nonfiction, and memoir.

Scum is interested in publishing feminist-friendly work of any variety, but as a general rule your piece should be under 2000 words (50 lines for poetry, max. 3 poems) and able to be classified as fiction, non-fiction or poetry.

Southerly is one of Australia’s oldest continuous literary journals. The journal of the English Association, Sydney, was launched in 1939. Southerly accepts short fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and academic essays.

Stereo Stories

Publishes evocative, concise stories and short memoirs based around a song. Non-fiction. Up to 800 words. The shorter the better.

StylusLit is an Australian, bi-annual online literary journal, which publishes poetry, short stories, creative nonfiction, novel excerpts, interviews and reviews. Issues are published in March and September.

Underground Writers

The Underground Writers Magazine was started by a group of students who were studying together at Edith Cowan University, Perth in 2009. Accepts poems, short stories, flash fiction and reviews, prioritizing unpublished writers.

Unusual Work A print magazine edited by Melbourne poet Pi O. Visual, concrete and experimental poetry. Submit to: Collective Effort Press, PO Box 2430, GPO Melbourne VIC 3001 with a stamped-self addressed envelope. Unpublished work only.

Voiceworks is a national literary journal that features exciting new writing and art by young Australians. Their purpose is to create a space for people under 25 to develop their creative and editorial skills and to publish, and be paid for, their fiction, nonfiction, poetry, art and comics.

Covers literature and culture throughout the world, but maintains a special emphasis on Australia, particularly Western Australia, and the Asian region. Westerly publishes short stories, micro-fiction, poetry, memoir and creative non-fiction, artwork, essays and literary criticism.

WA Writing Organisations

Each organisation offers a variety of workshops, writing groups, competitions and support for writers. Click on the links, read more to discover which group suits your needs

Centre for Stories The Centre for Stories focus is on empowering people whose experiences and perspectives are often marginalised. This includes people from refugee and migrant backgrounds, people of colour, older people, people living with disability, and people who identify as LGBTQIA+. The Centre provides a variety of services and amenities to people, community groups, government agencies and the corporate sector. These include: storytelling training; print, online, audio and video storytelling production services; professional development training for teachers, writers and oral storytellers; mentoring for emerging practitioners; and storytelling services for not-for-profits and corporates.

The Fellowship of Australian Writers (WA) FAWWA was founded in 1938 with the aim of supporting Western Australian writers and promoting their work. Every month, they host writing groups, book launches, author talks, poetry readings and more. Situated at the Tom Collins House and Mattie Furphy House in Swanbourne, FAWWA is a well-respected, not for profit writers’ center for the Perth metropolitan and regional areas.

KSP Writers’ Centre The KSP Writers' Centre exists to support writers at all levels of the craft. The Centre is managed by the Katharine Susannah Prichard (KSP) Foundation Inc. The Foundation was formed in 1985 to preserve the author Katharine Susanah Prichard’s house at Old York Road, Greenmount, and run it as a Centre dedicated to writing development, the promotion of writers and literature, and to preserve the legacy of the celebrated Australian novelist. The Centre boasts a premiere Writer-in-Residence program and unique youth program. In addition, annual activities include workshops, courses, writing groups, author talks, retreats, fellowships, mentoring, competitions, publishing assistance, philanthropic poetry readings, special projects, and an annual line-up of fun social events.

OOTA (Out of the Asylum Writers Group) Out of the Asylum is an independent organisation which provides a framework for all writers – and new and emerging writers in particular – to develop their creativity and reach audiences through publication or performance. OOTA has published several anthologies of short fiction and poetry, holds regular Friday writing group meetings at Fremantle Arts Centre, and offers the bi-annual Spilt Ink prose and poetry writing competition each year.

Peter Cowan Writers’ Centre Inc.    In the years since its inception in 1998, Peter Cowan Writers’ Centre has offered a range of writing opportunities for its membership and the wider writing community. The writers’ centre also holds regular member meetings, provides specialist writing workshops, offers a short story competition, and regular creative writing and peer review sessions for its members and the wider writing community.

Rockingham Writers Centre Rockingham Writers Centre is an initiative of Friends of Rockingham Arts Community Inc. They have been providing literary programs and services in the Rockingham region since 2015. Writing Centre members can attend monthly writing groups, enter the short story competition and attend the yearly writing convention.

Writing WA Writing WA works to build a state of opportunity in Western Australia for writers, publishers and other practitioners in the writing sector – not just for the benefit of practitioners themselves, but for the social value that great writing brings to individuals and communities. They offer a number of resources to support all kinds of writing, long-form or short, in a book or on-screen. They offer links to help writers with finding a writing group, publishing and rates of pay, and also help the public find a writer or illustrator to link with their project.

WAPI (WA Poets Inc.) WA Poets Inc (WAPI) was established in 2006 as an incorporated, not-for-profit organisation. WAPI is dedicated to the promotion, presentation and professional development of poets and poetry in Western Australia, and presenting Western Australian poetry to local, national and global audiences. They run the regular Perth International Poetry Festival and writing prizes, publish an online magazine (Creatrix) and poetry books, organise regular workshops and writing groups throughout the year.

Writing Festivals in Western Australia

Denmark Festival of Voice Established in 2003, The Denmark Festival of Voice is one of only two dedicated vocal festivals in Australia. Music is only one part of the program alongside storytelling, spoken word, poetry and experimental performance.

Kimberley Writers Festival The Kimberley Writers Festival aims to entertain and inspire the community of the East Kimberley with a variety of authors, musicians, songwriters, storytellers and illustrators who share their life stories and love of the written and spoken word.

Margaret River Readers and Writers Festival A 3-day storytelling spectacular featuring top Australian novelists, journalists, speakers, innovators and thinkers.

Perth Festival - Literature and Ideas As part of the Perth Festival a “Literature and Ideas” event is curated to bring an array of brilliant local writers – and international and national special guests joining live or by video link – to take centre stage in a series of sessions curated specially for a Perth audience.

Perth Poetry Festival The annual Perth Poetry Festival is organised by WA Poets Inc and features invited international, national and local poets plus ample opportunities for public participation in a diverse program of free and low cost events. Professional development is also supported through workshops, seminars, panels and networking opportunities.

Rockingham Writers Convention A yearly convention run by the Rockingham Writers’ Centre. A day long convention of workshops and talks which includes morning and afternoon tea and lunch.

Ubud Writers and Readers Festival in Perth Writing WA presents the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival Perth in 2021, in partnership with Ubud Writers and Readers Festival and with investment from the State Government through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. The program will be a hybrid festival combining both live and digital events, bringing the wonder and creativity of this internationally renowned festival to the Perth CBD.

The York Festival - Writer’s Program Join new and established WA authors as they serve up a feast of fiction, non-fiction, kids’ books, crime fiction and poetry in their Writers program curated by The West Australian’s William Yeoman.

Poetry Readings in Perth and Western Australia

Neon Readings Hosted by Hectic Measures Press, Dirtymouth and more fortnightly at the YMCA HQ in Perth. Search “Neon Readings” on Facebook for Event details.

Perth Poetry Club Perth Poetry Club - where slams meet sonnets. The Perth Poetry Club meets weekly on Saturday afternoons at the Moon Cafe in Northbridge. They have feature readers and a yearly open mic event. Entry is free, and nobody is excluded, but they ask people to contribute according to their means.

Perth Poetry Festival The annual Perth Poetry Festival features two weeks of readings and features around September each year.

Perth Slam! A poetry slam is the competitive art of Performance Poetry. They base their rules on the Australian Poetry Slam. Slam contestants are given a microphone, a live audience and just two minutes to impress the judges with their original spoken word, poetry, hip hop, monologues and stories. The judges’ decisions are final and the winner takes the door!

The Literature Centre The Literature Centre provides quality student workshops and writing programs across Western Australia, inspires teachers with professional learning opportunities, and supports Australia’s talented Authors and Illustrators of literature for children and young adults.

Voicebox Voicebox is a monthly poetry event based in Fremantle featuring two invited guests and around 10 x three minute open mic slots. Voicebox is a creative and welcoming event where established, emerging and new Western Australian poets meet and have the chance to showcase their work.

WA Bush Poets and Yarn Spinners Promoting bush poetry, which is metered and rhymed poetry about Australia, Australians and/or the Australian way. They organise a Toodyay Bush Poetry Festival, WA Bush Poet State Championships, hold poetry prizes and meet regularly throughout the year. There are also bush poetry groups in Albany, Bunbury, Geraldton and Kalgoorlie.

Please contact us if you would like to add your group to the list.

Australian Writing Organisations

A list of the major, Australia-wide organisations for writers.

African Australian Writers’ Group Initiated by the African Australian Advocacy Centre and facilitated by WestWords. The African Australian Writers Group is a group of writers of all genres. The group focus is on craft and critical feedback with a view to publishing. A group of people from Africa and the African diaspora who realise the power of narrative in our world. Groups are both virtual and are opening in-person locations in Blacktown and Liverpool NSW.

Australian Bush Poets Association Inc. Membership of the Australian Bush Poets Association (ABPA) is comprised of writers, performers and individuals who are interested in bush poetry and enjoy written and live stories in rhyme and metre. ABPA is for those who have an interest in this piece of Australian culture called bush poetry.

Australian Historical Association The Australian Historical Association, founded in 1973, is a national organisation of historians, academics, professionals and others, working in all fields of history. Its members number around 600, including universities, libraries and other affiliates.

Australian Horror Writers Association The Australasian Horror Writers Association (AHWA) is a non-profit organisation formed in 2003. The AHWA provides a community and unified voice for Australasian writers of dark fiction, fostering the evolution of the genre within Australia.

Australian Poetry The Australian Poetry is a not-for-profit, national incorporated association established to promote reading, writing and publishing activities associated with Australian poetry in all of its forms.

Australian Society of Authors The Australian Society of Authors (ASA) is the professional organisation, community and voice of Australia’s writers and illustrators. Established in 1963 as the peak national association for Australian authors, our purpose is to support writers and illustrators to pursue sustainable creative careers through advocacy, support and advice.

Australian Writers’ Guild The Australian Writers’ Guild is the professional association representing writers for stage, screen, radio and online and has protected and promoted their creative and professional interests for more than 50 years. The AWG’s purpose is to promote the role and recognition of – and rewards for – performance writing in Australian society and culture.

Australian Writers Marketplace Since its inception in 1997, the Writer’s Marketplace has been a place to find the contacts needed to succeed in the writing business. Now at online database writers can browse the directories to connect with editors and other writers services; access submission and contact details for publishers and literary agents; keep up to date on all the latest writing opportunities, competitions and awards – plus more.

The Copyright Agency The Copyright Agency collects fees and distributes royalties to creator members for the reuse of their copyrighted materials. They also have lots of useful information on their website, and occasionally have grants to support artists through their Cultural Fund.

Express Media For over 30 years, Express Media has been developing, supporting and promoting young writers through workshops that develop skills, through opportunities for constructive feedback and publication, and through awards and programs that recognise excellence. Their flagship publication, Voiceworks, is made entirely by writers, editors and artists under the age of 25.

Illustrators Australia Illustrators Australia (IA) is an association of illustrators formed in 1989 for the purpose of promoting illustration and the interests of artists Australia-wide. IA maintains a comprehensive online database of illustrators and members, and produces artists source books, workshops/seminars, newsletters and exhibitions.

May Gibbs Children's Literature Trust The May Gibbs Children's Literature Trust promotes the creation of contemporary Australian children’s literature in the belief that children’s books, written and illustrated by Australians, are vital to the well-being, creativity and literacy of our children.

Romance Writers of Australia Exists to promote excellence in romantic fiction, to help aspiring writers become published and published authors to maintain and establish their careers, to foster a safe, equitable, inclusive and diverse community, and to provide continuing support for romance writers – whatever their genre – within the romance publishing industry. Offers writing groups to join, critique, contests, community and awards.

Screen Australia Screen Australia is a Federal Government agency charged with supporting Australian screen development, production and promotion. Screen Australia was established under the Screen Australia Act 2008 and from 1 July 2008 took over the functions and appropriations of its predecessor agencies, the Australian Film Commission (AFC), the Film Finance Corporation Australia (FFC) and Film Australia Limited.

Sisters in Crime This organisation aims to celebrate women’s crime writing on the page and screen and bring a collective critical eye to the field. They promote the professional development of women crime writers, especially emerging writers and provide opportunities for networking between writers, publishers and producers and between writers and their readers and viewers.

Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (Australia East and New Zealand) Their aim is to create a vibrant community of kids’ book creators through meetings, conferences, online events and a monthly e-newsletter. SCBWI connects members with each other and industry professionals so they can develop their craft, learn about the world of publishing, secure publication and have a lot of fun.

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How to be an author : the business of being a writer in Australia

Published by Fremantle Press

Georgia Richter and Deborah Hunn look at the business of becoming an author. In a friendly, informative and practical way they share all you need to know about inspiration and research, preparing to submit to a publisher, creating an author brand, legal, ethical and moral considerations, pitching and effective social media and much more.

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(02) 8204 4400

• Duration 3 years full-time or equivalent part-time
• Duration type Full time; Part time
• Campus Sydney
• Study mode On campus
• Commencement Semester 1; Semester 2
• Program code 3009
• CRICOS code 015324A
• Fee Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP); International Full Fees

Bachelor of Arts (Major: Writing)

Do you have a passion for writing? Writing clearly and effectively is a highly sought-after skill in any profession. The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Bachelor of Arts (Major: Writing) is an intensive writing degree that will prepare you to research, write and edit various written materials. During the program, you will study everything from literary works to technical journals and websites; looking at the works of others will also allow you to improve the range and depth of your writing ability. Get in contact with us today to start your writing career.

Why study this degree?

Do you want to write the great Australian novel? Perhaps you dream of becoming a professional speechwriter or embarking on a career as a digital copywriter? Our Writing Major demonstrates just how expansive the role of a professional writer has become in the 21 st Century.

This program balances literary appreciation and skills-based training. You will be encouraged to think both creatively and critically – and to explore the relationship between writing practice, form and genre. In addition to learning about the Western literary tradition, you will also be introduced to many other genres such as screen writing, feature writing, professional writing and drama. You will also gain valuable training in researching and editing, both of which are crucial skills for any writer.

This degree is a natural choice if you want to become a professional writer, but is also a great asset if you want to pursue a career in journalism, the theatre, politics or film and screen production.

Program summary

Compulsory courses

• WRIT2000 The Western Literary Tradition
• WRIT2000 Narrative Writing
• WRIT3010 Writing Project

Plus at least FOUR (4) of the following:

• COMM2020 Screenwriting
• Professional Writing
• COMM3040 Feature Writing
• WRIT3000 Writing for Performance
• Australian Writer’s Workshop

Plus at least ONE (1) of the following:

• ENGL3320 The Novel in English
• ENGL3030 Gothic Literature and its Legacy
• COMM3090 Adaptation Studies
• ENGL3160 Australian Literature and the Post-Colonial Challenge
• ENGL3010 Uses and Abuses of Literary Theory
• ENGL3060 Australian Theatre

Core Curriculum

• CORE I: Foundations of Wisdom
• Electives in philosophy and\or theology
• Professional embedded electives that integrate studies in a profession with philosophy and\or theology
• An option to undertake a pilgrimage embedded in the study of the philosophy and theology of pilgrimage, e.g., World Youth Day
• An option to undertake a course that integrates philosophy & theology with community service and charity work
• An option to undertake an elective in philosophy, theology, and the liberal arts contained within an international experience

Plus 12 electives which may form another Major or Minor (undertaken during Years One, Two and/or Three).

Full details of the program requirements are contained in the Program Requirements .

More information regarding courses can be found at the course descriptions page.

Please note: The availability of these courses is indicative only and may be subject to change.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements wa.

Academic requirements for this program are outlined below.  In addition, to be eligible for admission, all applicants need to satisfy the Minimum University Admission Requirements outlined. These include those relating to minimum age and  English Language Proficiency .  We also consider your application more broadly – your non-academic achievements (such as any previous leadership roles, volunteering, work, church and/or community involvement) as well as personal qualities - your aspirations and interests and your capacity to complete your chosen program.  See Individual Factors for further details regarding this.

Applicants with recent Secondary Education

• Indicative ATAR/Selection Rank* of 70
• International Baccalaureate (IB) score of 25

*Selection Ranks include ATAR plus Adjustment Factors .

Applicants with Higher Education Study

• Successful completion of 2 subjects at an undergraduate level or higher*
• Successful completion of the Notre Dame Tertiary Pathway Program (TPP), or a tertiary preparation program from another institution that is deemed to be of a similar academic rigour to the Notre Dame TPP

*Applicants who have successfully completed subjects at another University, which are relevant to the selected program of study, may be eligible for credit (Advanced Standing) .

Applicants with Vocational Education and Training (VET) study

• Successful completion of AQF Certificate IV or higher from an accredited provider such as TAFE or a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)

Applicants with Work and Life Experience

Applicants who left secondary education more than two years previously and who have not undertaken VET or higher education study since may be considered for direct entry. This includes applicants who have completed Steiner, Montessori or home school curriculums. To qualify, applicants must be 20 years of age as at 1 March in the year of intake and meet one or more of the following:

• Applicants who have completed at least two years of relevant work experience may be considered for direct entry. Applicants must provide evidence of their work experience, including duties undertaken and years of experience, and they must demonstrate that they have the academic capability to undertake undergraduate studies. The Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) may be required.
• Completion of STAT with scores of at least 135 in the Multiple Choice section  and 140 in the Written English section^.
• Completion of two Year 12 WACE, HSC or equivalent exams, with a result equivalent to the Indicative ATAR/Selection Rank listed under Secondary Education section above.

*STAT results must have been obtained within the last three calendar years in order to be considered (e.g. for 2024 admission, STAT results obtained in 2023, 2022 or 2021 can be considered).

Please note: all applicants must be of school leaving age or older to apply.

Applicants to the School of Education require a completed AQF Diploma or higher in a relevant discipline.

Entry requirements NSW

• Prescribed ATAR/Selection Rank*
• International Baccalaureate (IB) score
• Completion of STAT with scores of at least 150 in the Multiple Choice section  and 150 in the Written English section^.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Arts graduates should be able to;

• Demonstrate broad theoretical and practical knowledge, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts of one or more disciplines or practice areas
• Identify appropriate sources and evaluate information
• Demonstrate an awareness of different conceptual approaches and/or research methods
• Demonstrate the technical skills, professional skills and ethical practice required by one or more disciplines
• Synthesise knowledge and apply skills in order to solve complex problems
• Communicate arguments and/or ideas in a range of forms
• Work independently and, where appropriate, in collaboration with others
• Reflect upon personal knowledge, skills and experiences

Career opportunities

Graduates of this program can follow diverse career paths in the private and public sectors; Many employers will welcome the transferable skills. The following careers are open to graduates of this program: professional writer,  journalism, theatre, politics or film and screen production.

Real-world experience

You will learn from our academics, who are leaders in their field. While not a requirement, internship courses and work-integrated learning opportunities are available to enable you to gain on-the-job experience with professionals in your chosen field.

An Honours award is available for this program. Further information can be found in the  Bachelor of Arts (Honours) regulations , or by contacting the  School of Arts & Sciences .

Study abroad

A global perspective adds a valuable dimension to your university education. At Notre Dame University you can study while experiencing the world. We encourage students to become active global citizens through a range of exchange programs, professional placements, study tours, and volunteer opportunities. Visit International Opportunities to find out more.

Fees and costs

This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:

Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a place at a university where the Australian Government pays part of your fees. This part is a subsidy, not a loan, and you don’t have to pay it back. However, this subsidy does not cover the entire cost of your study. Students must pay the rest, which is called the ‘student contribution amount’.

In a Commonwealth Supported Place, your fees are subsidised by the Australian Government. Your fees will be split into two portions:

The Commonwealth contribution, which is the portion paid by the Australian Government.

The student contribution, which is the portion you pay. You may choose to pay upfront or defer your student contribution with a HECS-HELP Loan. The HECS-HELP loan scheme assists eligible students with the payment of all, or part, of their tuition fees, not including additional study costs such as accommodation or textbooks. Your HECS-HELP debt will be indexed each year in line with the Consumer Price Index.

Eligible students will be offered a CSP – you do not need to apply.

International Full-Fee Paying Tuition costs depend on an international student’s study load and discipline. Fees are payable each semester at least four weeks prior to the commencement of your program.

For indicative fees and information on how to pay, including Government loan schemes and our online calculator, visit our Fees, costs and scholarships page .

Student profile data

Tables 1 and 2 below give an indication of the likely peer cohort for new students in this Program. It provides data on all students who commenced in this Program in the most relevant recent intake period, including those admitted through all offer rounds and international students studying in Australia.

Fremantle Student Profile Data

TABLE 1a – Bachelor of Arts BASIS OF ADMISSION IN SEMESTER 1, 2022 INTAKE

TABLE 1b – Bachelor of Arts ATAR PROFILE DATA FOR APPLICANTS ENTERING ON THE BASIS OF RECENT SECONDARY EDUCATION IN SEMESTER 1, 2022 INTAKE

Sydney Student Profile Data

TABLE 2a – Bachelor of Arts (Honours) BASIS OF ADMISSION IN SEMESTER 1, 2022 INTAKE

Notes:  

“<5” – the number of students is less than 5 N/A – Students not accepted in this category N/P – Not published: the number is hidden to prevent the calculation of numbers in cells with less than 5 students

In 2022, due to COVID, additional adjustment factor points were granted to applicants from NSW, ACT and VIC.

More information

Considering your uni options?

Talk to one of our career advisors for a personalised advice session . Our advisors provide support while choosing a program of study and completing our application process. Book my session.

For more information, please call our Prospective Students Office on +61 2 8204 4404 or email  [email protected] .

All international enquiries should contact the International Students Office on  [email protected] .

Other programs you may like

• Bachelor of Arts (Major: Liberal Arts)
• Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Behavioural Science
• Bachelor of Arts (Politics & Journalism) / Behavioural Science
• Bachelor of Communications & Media (Major: Film & Screen Production)

Student stories

Arts graduate

“Employers have a great appreciation of the type of student that comes out of Notre Dame.”

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Arts & Sciences student

“Drama is an engaging way to also teach history, art and ethics.”

Our students give us top marks

No.1 uni in Australia Overall Employment *

No.1 uni in NSW & WA Learner Engagement **

No.1 uni in WA Skills Development ***

*2021 Graduate Outcomes Survey-Longitudinal (medium term outcome), undergraduate category, **2021 Student Experience Survey, postgraduate category and ***2021 Student Experience Survey, postgraduate category - qilt.edu.au

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Creative Writing

Learn to express yourself creatively with the written word and craft new ideas and new worlds that inform, inspire, and entertain.

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Why Study Creative Writing?

As a creative writing major at USD, you will learn the craft of writing in multiple genres through a hands-on, action-based approach that builds writerly skills in reading, craft and technique, and creative process. Our faculty members–all published writers–challenge students to experiment and take chances, to learn from the critiques of their classmates and professors, and embrace the process of revision. At USD, you can explore writing classes in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, screenwriting, and publishing. You also have opportunities to read your work at public events, publish your work, participate in the editing of a student-run magazine, and help manage an independent literary press. Our students graduate with marketable skills in professional writing, editing, marketing, and teaching. Many pursue graduate work.

As a creative writing major at USD, develop real world professional skills while also learning the art of writing.

Degrees & Offerings

English: creative writing specialization (b.a., b.s.).

A creative writing specialization allows an English major to extend the tradition of strong and imaginative creative storytellers, poets and creative nonfiction writers who have honed their skills at USD. Our faculty include novelists, poets, creative nonfiction and short-story writers and a South Dakota Poet Laureate. Students work in small, intimate classes on their own creative work while also gaining a firm grounding in literature and literary criticism.

A minor in creative writing allows you to combine your imaginative interests in writing with your primary major area. This minor pairs well with any Arts and Sciences majors allowing students to work with published writers to develop literary craft and artistic skills across a wide range of genres including poetry, drama, fiction, and creative nonfiction.

Program Details

Undergraduate

College of Arts & Sciences

Student Opportunities

• Editorial and Professional Opportunities
• Writing Center 
• Clubs and Organizations
• Gasque Study in Britain Scholarship

The Department of English offers opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in the operation of two periodicals and a literary press. South Dakota Review , a quarterly journal, publishes both creative and critical work for a national audience. Undergraduate students may assist English graduate students and faculty in the editorial and circulation duties associated with this publication.

The Vermillion Literary Project holds open-mic reading events, an annual writers festival and produces an annual anthology of local fiction, poetry and artwork entitled the Red Coyote. Undergraduate students participate in all of the group's activities. Astrophil Press produces award-winning books of literary fiction, nonfiction and poetry. Undergraduate students may help graduate students and faculty in management of this influential independent publishing enterprise.

Students who excel at writing can become a paid peer writing consultant at USD's Writing Center, which offers help in all areas of writing for USD students. Writing consultants receive training to assist students with any task that includes writing, including essays, reports, theses, short stories, resumes and cover letters. Working as a writing consultant gives you experience as a critical reader, proofreader and editor--all skills that will serve you in a future career.

Academic Support and Resources

USD is home to more than 170 student organizations, including several that are housed in the Department of English. For example, you may be interested in joining Vermillion Literary Project to make friends, develop new skills and explore your interests. Also, Alpha Mu Phi is USD's local chapter of the Sigma Tau Delta international English Honor Society. Students inducted into our chapter hold flash fiction contests, sponsor a little free library in the Vermillion community and present research and creative work at the national Sigma Tau Delta conference.

Get Involved

Thomas and Alice Gasque Study-in-Britain Scholarship 

English students interested in traveling abroad are encouraged to apply for the the Gasque Study-in-Britain Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to a USD undergraduate with a grade point average of 3.2 or higher, with special preference given to English majors, for the purpose of studying in Great Britain.

Departments & Facilities

Investigate and gain insight into how we understand ourselves and communicate through stories, poetry and other narratives. Cultivate your ability to read and write and think about complex issues with the Department of English.

Faculty & Staff

Darlene Farabee

Duncan Barlow

Prentiss Clark

Pete Dexter

John Dudley

Paul Formisano

Kenneth Green

Benjamin Hagen

Julie Kelderman

Kevin Magee

Cheyenne Marco

Leah McCormack

Martin McGoey

Joseph Raiche

Lisa Ann Robertson

Michelle Gannon

Lee Roripaugh

Skip Willman

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