We are on the lookout for compelling and original works of adult non-fiction that celebrate First Nations voices. Enter below for a chance to win The Bundyi Writing Prize. This Prize is awarded to an outstanding unpublished manuscript by an emerging Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander writer (a writer who maybe have appeared in anthologies and literary journals but is yet to have a full length manuscript published). Please see Official Rules for the terms and conditions to enter this contest. 

 Please follow @BundyiPublishing on Instagram for more information. 

PRIZE 

The Bundyi Writing prize winner will receive a cash prize of AUD$10,000 sponsored by Simon & Schuster Australia and includes manuscript development with a First Nations editor. The winner will also have the opportunity to receive a standard book publishing contract with the Bundyi Imprint in relation to their Manuscript, in eBook, print and/or other format.  

HOW TO ENTER 

Entries open: 9am AET on Tuesday 3 March 2026

Entries close: 23:59:59 AET on Monday 31 August 2026

To enter you will need to:  

• Complete the Online entry form, including your full name, email address, and phone number. 

You will need to provide:  

• A digital copy of your non-fiction manuscript which must be a minimum of 70,000 words;A brief single-page cover letter to introduce yourself to the judges. Include the title and word count of the Manuscript, author name, biography, and publication history; and 
• A single-page synopsis or summary of your manuscript. 
• A copy of a Confirmation of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Descent/Letter of Confirmation with a common seal from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander incorporated community organisation

ELIGIBILITY 

Entries open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander writers who have provided the documentation required by Section 1 of the Terms & Conditions here, are at least 18 years of age, have provided a valid email address, and are located within an Australian state or territory (including external territories).  

Submissions will be judged by a team of judges based on the following equally weighted judging criteria: 

• originality 
• relevance to today’s publishing climate 
• quality of the writing.  

Please read the Terms and Conditions carefully to make sure your work is eligible. 

KEY DATES 

Entries open: 9am AET on Tuesday 3 March 2026

Entries close: 23:59:59 AET on Monday 31 August 2026

Winner announced: December 2026  

Terms & Conditions 

Please read the Terms & Conditions for full eligibility requirements and submission guidelines. View the Terms and Conditions here

For any other questions about the Bundyi Writing Prize, please contact [email protected]