Australia has a rich literary culture with a thriving publishing industry, offering opportunities for writers across various genres, from literary fiction and nonfiction to children's books and poetry.
Whether you are a debut author or an established writer, finding the right publisher for your work is crucial.
Below is a comprehensive list of top book publishers in Australia, organized by genre, along with their submission guidelines.
Table of Contents
- Should You Submit to Traditional Publishers?
- How to Submit to Traditional Publishers
- Nonfiction Publishers in Australia
- Fiction Publishers in Australia
- Children’s and Young Adult Publishers in Australia
- Poetry Publishers in Australia
- Academic and University Presses in Australia
- Finding the Right Publisher for Your Work
Should You Submit to Traditional Publishers?
One of the first decisions an author needs to make is whether traditional publishing is the right fit. Traditional publishing offers several benefits, including wider distribution, professional production, and industry connections. However, it can also be a longer, more competitive process, with some authors waiting months or even years to see their books in print.
If you’re uncertain whether traditional publishing is for you, read The Truth About Traditional Publishing for a breakdown of how it compares to self-publishing. Understanding the pros and cons can help you make an informed decision before diving into the submission process.
How to Submit to Traditional Publishers
Once you've decided that traditional publishing is the right path, your next step is to prepare your submission. For fiction writers, this typically means sending a polished manuscript, but nonfiction writers often need to create a book proposal. A strong proposal outlines your book’s concept, target audience, and why it stands out in the market.
If you're writing nonfiction and need guidance on crafting a compelling book proposal, check out How to Write a Book Proposal to Get Published Traditionally. This article will walk you through the essential elements of a proposal and increase your chances of catching a publisher’s attention.
With that in mind, let’s dive into the list of top U.S. publishers, organized by genre. Make sure to research each one and follow their specific submission guidelines.
Nonfiction Publishers in Australia
Allen & Unwin
Who it’s for: Writers of narrative nonfiction, history, memoir, politics, and current affairs.
About: Allen & Unwin is one of Australia’s leading independent publishers, known for publishing high-quality nonfiction. Their nonfiction list includes political analysis, history, memoirs, and books on social issues. They have won numerous awards and are committed to fostering Australian talent.
Submission requirements: Allen & Unwin accepts nonfiction proposals through their “Friday Pitch” program. Writers should submit a synopsis and the first chapter of their manuscript via email.
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Black Inc.
Who it’s for: Writers of memoir, politics, current affairs, history, and investigative journalism.
About: Black Inc. is an independent publisher based in Melbourne, known for its politically engaged and thought-provoking nonfiction. Their nonfiction list focuses on current affairs, memoirs, history, politics, and biographies. Black Inc. publishes works that address contemporary issues and often spark public debate.
Submission requirements: Black Inc. accepts nonfiction proposals via email. Writers should submit a synopsis, author bio, and sample chapters.
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Text Publishing
Who it’s for: Writers of narrative nonfiction, memoirs, and investigative journalism.
About: Text Publishing is an independent publisher with a strong list of narrative nonfiction. They publish a wide range of nonfiction, from memoirs and investigative journalism to history and popular science. Text Publishing is known for its commitment to new voices and important stories that contribute to public discourse.
Submission requirements: Text Publishing accepts unsolicited nonfiction submissions via email. Writers should submit a synopsis, cover letter, and sample chapters.
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Pan Macmillan Australia
Who it’s for: Writers of memoir, biography, history, and popular science.
About: Pan Macmillan Australia is one of the country’s largest publishers, with a broad nonfiction list that includes memoirs, biographies, history, and popular science. They work with bestselling authors and are known for publishing both commercial and literary nonfiction.
Submission requirements: Pan Macmillan does not accept unsolicited nonfiction submissions. Submissions must be made via a literary agent.
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Penguin Random House Australia
Who it’s for: Writers of memoir, biography, self-help, history, and general nonfiction.
About: Penguin Random House Australia is one of the country’s largest and most prestigious publishing houses, with a diverse nonfiction list. They publish memoirs, biographies, history, self-help, and books on popular science and current affairs.
Submission requirements: Penguin Random House does not accept unsolicited nonfiction manuscripts. Writers must submit via a literary agent.
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Hachette Australia
Who it’s for: Writers of memoir, history, true crime, and self-help.
About: Hachette Australia publishes a wide range of nonfiction, from memoirs and biographies to true crime, self-help, and history. They work with bestselling authors and focus on books that appeal to a broad audience. Hachette has a strong commitment to Australian voices and supports new and established authors alike.
Submission requirements: Hachette Australia does not accept unsolicited submissions. Writers must submit via a literary agent.
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Scribe Publications
Who it’s for: Writers of serious nonfiction, including history, politics, science, and current affairs.
About: Scribe Publications is an independent publisher based in Melbourne and London. They publish serious nonfiction on a wide range of topics, including politics, history, current affairs, and science. Scribe is known for its high editorial standards and commitment to publishing books that make a difference.
Submission requirements: Scribe accepts unsolicited nonfiction submissions via email. Writers should submit a synopsis, cover letter, and sample chapters.
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NewSouth Publishing
Who it’s for: Writers of Australian history, biography, politics, and current affairs.
About: NewSouth Publishing is an academic and trade publisher that focuses on Australian history, politics, and social issues. They publish both scholarly and general nonfiction, with an emphasis on works that explore Australian culture, identity, and history.
Submission requirements: NewSouth Publishing accepts unsolicited nonfiction proposals via email. Writers should submit a detailed proposal, including sample chapters and a synopsis.
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UWA Publishing (University of Western Australia)
Who it’s for: Writers of nonfiction, particularly those exploring Australian history, social issues, and Indigenous voices.
About: UWA Publishing focuses on high-quality nonfiction that explores Australian identity, history, and social issues. They publish works on Indigenous issues, Australian history, and other topics of national significance.
Submission requirements: UWA Publishing accepts unsolicited nonfiction submissions during specific open submission windows. Writers should submit a detailed synopsis and sample chapters via email.
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Affirm Press
Who it’s for: Writers of narrative nonfiction, memoir, and biography.
About: Affirm Press is one of Australia’s fastest-growing independent publishers. They are known for publishing positive, uplifting stories and have a strong list of narrative nonfiction, memoirs, and biographies. Affirm Press looks for stories with heart and relevance to a broad audience.
Submission requirements: Affirm Press accepts unsolicited nonfiction submissions via email. Writers should submit a synopsis, cover letter, and sample chapters.
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Magabala Books
Who it’s for: Writers of nonfiction, especially Indigenous authors writing on cultural, social, and historical topics.
About: Magabala Books is Australia’s leading Indigenous publishing house, based in Broome. They publish a wide range of nonfiction, particularly focusing on Indigenous culture, history, and storytelling. They champion Indigenous voices and are committed to fostering new talent.
Submission requirements: Magabala Books accepts unsolicited nonfiction submissions via email. Writers should submit a synopsis, sample chapters, and a cover letter.
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Exisle Publishing
Who it’s for: Writers of self-help, wellness, mental health, and lifestyle nonfiction.
About: Exisle Publishing specializes in nonfiction that inspires and empowers readers, with a focus on self-help, health, wellness, and lifestyle books. They are known for their books on mental health, personal development, and mindfulness.
Submission requirements: Exisle accepts nonfiction proposals via email. Writers should submit a synopsis, sample chapters, and a brief author bio.
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Fiction Publishers in Australia
Allen & Unwin
Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, contemporary fiction, and narrative nonfiction.
About: Allen & Unwin is one of Australia's largest independent publishers and a major player in the literary fiction market. They are known for publishing diverse and original voices in fiction, including both established and emerging authors. Allen & Unwin has a strong commitment to nurturing Australian talent and publishes award-winning literary fiction.
Submission requirements: Writers can submit literary fiction manuscripts through the “Friday Pitch” program, where they send the first chapter and a synopsis via email.
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Text Publishing
Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, short stories, and narrative nonfiction.
About: Text Publishing is a highly respected independent publisher known for its commitment to literary excellence. They publish both Australian and international authors and are known for discovering new talent. Text has a reputation for producing high-quality literary fiction, including works that explore contemporary life, identity, and complex emotional landscapes.
Submission requirements: Text Publishing accepts unsolicited manuscripts via email. Writers should submit a synopsis, cover letter, and the first three chapters of their manuscript.
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Scribe Publications
Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction and narrative nonfiction.
About: Scribe Publications is an independent publisher with offices in Melbourne and London. They are known for their commitment to publishing serious literary fiction that tackles meaningful and often challenging themes. Scribe’s list includes both debut and established authors, and they are highly regarded for their editorial care and commitment to producing quality books.
Submission requirements: Scribe accepts unsolicited manuscripts via email. Writers should submit a cover letter, synopsis, and sample chapters.
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Penguin Random House Australia
Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, historical fiction, and contemporary fiction.
About: Penguin Random House Australia is one of the country’s largest publishers, producing a wide range of literary and commercial fiction. They work with award-winning authors and publish books that often find international success. Penguin Random House publishes works that explore deep emotional and societal themes with a focus on strong narrative voices.
Submission requirements: Penguin Random House does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Writers must submit via a literary agent.
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Picador (Pan Macmillan Australia)
Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, contemporary fiction, and memoir.
About: Picador is the literary imprint of Pan Macmillan and is known for publishing some of the finest literary fiction in Australia. They focus on beautifully crafted stories that resonate with a wide range of readers, often blending commercial and literary appeal. Picador authors include award-winning novelists who tackle contemporary and universal themes.
Submission requirements: Picador does not accept unsolicited submissions. Writers must submit through a literary agent.
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Giramondo Publishing
Who it’s for: Writers of experimental and literary fiction, poetry, and translations.
About: Giramondo Publishing is an independent Australian publisher with a focus on innovative literary fiction and poetry. They have a reputation for publishing experimental and avant-garde works, as well as fostering new and emerging voices in Australian literature. Giramondo publishes works that challenge traditional storytelling forms, often featuring strong cultural and social themes.
Submission requirements: Giramondo accepts unsolicited submissions via email, but only during specific open submission periods. Writers should check the website for guidelines.
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Affirm Press
Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction and narrative nonfiction.
About: Affirm Press is an independent publisher known for its uplifting and positive stories, as well as high-quality literary fiction. They focus on discovering new Australian voices and publish a range of fiction that appeals to both literary and general audiences. Affirm Press has a strong commitment to storytelling that inspires and challenges readers.
Submission requirements: Affirm Press accepts unsolicited manuscripts via email. Writers should submit a synopsis, cover letter, and sample chapters.
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UQP (University of Queensland Press)
Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, Indigenous fiction, and narrative nonfiction.
About: UQP is a leading Australian publisher with a focus on literary fiction, Indigenous voices, and narrative nonfiction. They are committed to publishing diverse and inclusive stories that reflect the Australian experience and culture. UQP authors frequently explore themes of identity, belonging, and social justice in their works.
Submission requirements: UQP accepts unsolicited submissions during open submission periods. Writers should submit a synopsis, cover letter, and sample chapters via their online submission form.
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Transit Lounge
Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction and works with international or cross-cultural themes.
About: Transit Lounge is an independent publisher that specializes in literary fiction, with a strong focus on stories that explore global perspectives, migration, and cross-cultural experiences. They are known for publishing books that are both deeply personal and widely resonant, appealing to readers who enjoy diverse, culturally rich narratives.
Submission requirements: Transit Lounge accepts unsolicited submissions during specific reading periods. Writers should submit a synopsis, cover letter, and sample chapters.
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Fremantle Press
Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, particularly those from Western Australia.
About: Fremantle Press is an independent publisher that focuses on Western Australian authors and stories that reflect the region’s culture, landscapes, and people. They publish literary fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books, and are known for discovering and nurturing local talent.
Submission requirements: Fremantle Press accepts unsolicited submissions through their online portal during specific submission windows.
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Harlequin Australia (HarperCollins)
Who it’s for: Writers of romance, women’s fiction, and commercial fiction.
About: Harlequin Australia, an imprint of HarperCollins, is one of the leading publishers of romance fiction in Australia. They publish a wide variety of romance subgenres, including contemporary romance, historical romance, and romantic suspense, as well as women’s fiction. Harlequin has a strong global presence and is known for its accessible and commercial storytelling.
Submission requirements: Harlequin Australia accepts unsolicited submissions through their online submission portal. Writers can submit full manuscripts according to the guidelines for their specific romance lines.
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Pan Macmillan Australia
Who it’s for: Writers of commercial fiction, including romance, crime, thriller, and historical fiction.
About: Pan Macmillan Australia is one of the country’s largest and most well-known publishers, with a strong presence in commercial and genre fiction. They publish bestselling crime novels, thrillers, historical fiction, and romance, with a focus on books that appeal to wide audiences.
Submission requirements: Pan Macmillan does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Submissions must be made via a literary agent.
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Hachette Australia
Who it’s for: Writers of crime, thrillers, fantasy, and historical fiction.
About: Hachette Australia publishes a broad range of genre fiction, including crime, thrillers, fantasy, and historical fiction. They work with bestselling and debut authors alike and are known for supporting Australian writers who produce gripping, commercial fiction.
Submission requirements: Hachette Australia does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Writers must submit through a literary agent.
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Allen & Unwin
Who it’s for: Writers of crime, thrillers, fantasy, and historical fiction.
About: In addition to its literary fiction list, Allen & Unwin publishes a wide variety of genre fiction, including crime, fantasy, and thrillers. Their books often have broad commercial appeal, and they are committed to supporting both Australian and international voices in genre fiction.
Submission requirements: Writers can submit manuscripts through Allen & Unwin’s “Friday Pitch” program, which accepts unsolicited submissions. Writers should send a synopsis and the first chapter of their manuscript.
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Text Publishing
Who it’s for: Writers of crime, thrillers, historical fiction, and speculative fiction.
About: Text Publishing is an independent Australian publisher that, alongside literary fiction, publishes genre fiction with strong literary merit. They focus on well-crafted stories in crime, thrillers, historical fiction, and speculative fiction. Text Publishing has a reputation for discovering fresh voices and producing high-quality fiction.
Submission requirements: Text Publishing accepts unsolicited manuscripts via email. Writers should submit a synopsis, cover letter, and sample chapters.
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Clan Destine Press
Who it’s for: Writers of crime, mystery, thriller, and speculative fiction.
About: Clan Destine Press is an independent Australian publisher specializing in crime, mystery, thrillers, and speculative fiction. They are committed to publishing exciting, action-packed stories that appeal to fans of these genres, with a focus on strong characters and compelling narratives.
Submission requirements: Clan Destine Press accepts unsolicited submissions via email. Writers should submit a synopsis and sample chapters.
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Ford Street Publishing
Who it’s for: Writers of young adult and middle-grade fiction, including fantasy and science fiction.
About: Ford Street Publishing is a leading Australian publisher of children’s and young adult fiction, particularly in the fantasy and science fiction genres. They focus on well-crafted, imaginative stories that appeal to young readers and explore themes of adventure, identity, and discovery.
Submission requirements: Ford Street Publishing accepts unsolicited manuscripts via email. Writers should submit a synopsis and the first three chapters.
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Serenity Press
Who it’s for: Writers of historical romance, fantasy, and fairytale retellings.
About: Serenity Press is an independent publisher known for its focus on historical romance, fantasy, and fairytale retellings. They are committed to publishing strong, female-led narratives and are open to both new and established authors. Serenity Press is based in Western Australia and publishes works that transport readers into imaginative and richly detailed worlds.
Submission requirements: Serenity Press accepts unsolicited manuscripts via email. Writers should submit a synopsis and sample chapters.
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Fremantle Press
Who it’s for: Writers of crime, historical fiction, and general genre fiction, especially those from Western Australia.
About: Fremantle Press is an independent publisher that focuses on works by Western Australian authors. They publish a wide range of genre fiction, including crime, historical fiction, and general fiction with a strong sense of place and identity. Fremantle Press is known for discovering new voices and publishing stories that reflect the Western Australian landscape and culture.
Submission requirements: Fremantle Press accepts unsolicited submissions through their online portal during open submission periods.
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Voyager Australia (HarperCollins)
Who it’s for: Writers of science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction.
About: Voyager Australia is HarperCollins’ dedicated science fiction and fantasy imprint. They publish a wide range of speculative fiction, from epic fantasy to dystopian science fiction. Voyager has a reputation for publishing bestselling Australian and international authors in these genres and is known for working closely with their authors to develop immersive, imaginative worlds.
Submission requirements: Voyager Australia does not accept unsolicited submissions. Writers must submit through a literary agent.
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Children’s and Young Adult Publishers in Australia
Australia has a robust market for children’s and young adult (YA) literature, with many publishers committed to producing high-quality books for young readers. Whether you're writing picture books, middle-grade fiction, or young adult novels, finding the right publisher is key to reaching your audience. Below is a comprehensive list of leading children’s and YA publishers in Australia, along with submission guidelines for each.
Allen & Unwin
Who it’s for: Writers of children’s picture books, middle-grade fiction, and YA novels.
About: Allen & Unwin is a leading independent publisher in Australia, well-known for its award-winning children’s and YA titles. They publish a wide range of books, from beautifully illustrated picture books to compelling middle-grade and YA fiction. Allen & Unwin is dedicated to supporting both emerging and established authors.
Submission requirements: Allen & Unwin accepts unsolicited submissions through their “Friday Pitch” program. Writers can submit the first chapter of their manuscript and a synopsis via email.
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Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing
Who it’s for: Writers of picture books, middle-grade fiction, and YA novels.
About: Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing is part of the Hardie Grant Group and publishes a diverse range of children’s and YA books, including picture books, middle-grade fiction, and young adult novels. They are known for producing engaging, thought-provoking stories for young readers, with a strong emphasis on creativity and quality.
Submission requirements: Hardie Grant accepts unsolicited submissions via email. Writers should submit a cover letter, synopsis, and sample chapters.
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Penguin Random House Australia (Children’s Division)
Who it’s for: Writers of children’s picture books, middle-grade fiction, and YA novels.
About: Penguin Random House Australia is one of the largest trade publishers in the country and has a strong list of children’s and YA titles. They publish across all genres and age ranges, from picture books and early readers to middle-grade novels and YA fiction, often working with bestselling authors and illustrators.
Submission requirements: Penguin Random House does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Writers must submit via a literary agent.
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Scholastic Australia
Who it’s for: Writers of children’s fiction, educational books, middle-grade, and YA fiction.
About: Scholastic Australia is part of the global Scholastic brand, a major player in children’s publishing worldwide. They are known for their educational books and fiction aimed at children and teens, particularly for school markets. Scholastic publishes everything from picture books to YA novels and is a leader in literacy programs and book fairs.
Submission requirements: Scholastic Australia does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Submissions must be made through a literary agent.
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Text Publishing
Who it’s for: Writers of middle-grade fiction and YA novels.
About: Text Publishing is an independent publisher known for its literary fiction, and they also have a strong list of children’s and YA titles. Text focuses on quality storytelling for young readers, publishing both Australian and international authors. They are committed to discovering fresh talent and bringing diverse stories to young audiences.
Submission requirements: Text Publishing accepts unsolicited submissions via email. Writers should submit a synopsis, cover letter, and the first three chapters of their manuscript.
Visit their site
Fremantle Press
Who it’s for: Writers of children’s picture books, middle-grade fiction, and YA novels, particularly those from Western Australia.
About: Fremantle Press is an independent publisher that focuses on Western Australian authors and stories, including children’s and YA literature. They publish a wide range of books for younger readers, often highlighting local culture and landscapes, making them a significant voice in regional Australian storytelling.
Submission requirements: Fremantle Press accepts unsolicited submissions through their online portal during specific submission windows.
Visit their site
Ford Street Publishing
Who it’s for: Writers of children’s and YA fiction, including picture books and speculative fiction.
About: Ford Street Publishing specializes in children’s and YA books, particularly those with an adventurous or speculative edge. They are known for publishing exciting, imaginative works for young readers, from picture books to YA novels, and for discovering new Australian voices.
Submission requirements: Ford Street accepts unsolicited submissions via email. Writers should submit a synopsis, cover letter, and sample chapters.
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Walker Books Australia
Who it’s for: Writers and illustrators of picture books, middle-grade, and YA fiction.
About: Walker Books Australia is part of the Walker Books Group, a leading independent publisher of children's books. They produce high-quality picture books, middle-grade fiction, and YA novels, with a strong focus on storytelling and beautifully crafted illustrations. Walker Books has a reputation for producing award-winning and bestselling books for young readers.
Submission requirements: Walker Books Australia does not accept unsolicited submissions for middle-grade or YA fiction but accepts unsolicited picture book manuscripts from authors and illustrators via email.
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Hachette Australia (Children’s and YA Division)
Who it’s for: Writers of children’s fiction, middle-grade fiction, and YA novels.
About: Hachette Australia publishes a wide range of books for children and young adults. They are known for working with bestselling Australian and international authors, producing books across a variety of genres. Hachette publishes compelling middle-grade and YA novels that explore themes of identity, friendship, and adventure.
Submission requirements: Hachette Australia does not accept unsolicited submissions. Writers must submit via a literary agent.
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UQP (University of Queensland Press)
Who it’s for: Writers of literary children’s and YA fiction.
About: UQP is a leading Australian publisher with a strong list of literary children’s and YA fiction. They focus on books that challenge and inspire young readers, with a commitment to discovering new voices and publishing diverse perspectives. UQP’s children’s and YA titles often tackle important social and emotional themes.
Submission requirements: UQP accepts unsolicited submissions during open submission periods. Writers should submit a synopsis, cover letter, and sample chapters via their online submission form.
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Magabala Books
Who it’s for: Writers of children’s books, particularly Indigenous authors.
About: Magabala Books is Australia’s leading Indigenous publishing house, based in Broome. They publish children’s books that highlight Indigenous stories, culture, and perspectives, focusing on both fiction and nonfiction for young readers. Magabala is dedicated to nurturing and supporting Indigenous authors and illustrators.
Submission requirements: Magabala Books accepts unsolicited submissions via email. Writers should submit a synopsis, sample chapters, and a cover letter.
Visit their site
Poetry Publishers in Australia
Australia has a thriving poetry scene, with several independent publishers committed to fostering both emerging and established voices. These publishers are dedicated to producing high-quality collections, often reflecting the country’s diverse literary landscape, from experimental forms to more traditional verse. Below is a comprehensive list of leading poetry publishers in Australia, along with submission guidelines for each.
Giramondo Publishing
Who it’s for: Poets of contemporary, innovative, and experimental poetry.
About: Giramondo Publishing is an independent publisher known for publishing cutting-edge Australian literature, including poetry. They focus on experimental and innovative works and have a strong commitment to supporting emerging voices in Australian poetry. Giramondo’s poetry list includes both debut and established poets.
Submission requirements: Giramondo accepts unsolicited submissions during specific submission periods. Writers should check the website for open submission windows.
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UWA Publishing (University of Western Australia Press)
Who it’s for: Poets with a focus on Australian identity, culture, and landscapes, including Indigenous voices.
About: UWA Publishing has a strong poetry list, particularly focused on works that engage with Australian landscapes, culture, and identity. They are committed to promoting Australian poets, with a special emphasis on Indigenous voices and works that reflect Australia’s diverse history and environment.
Submission requirements: UWA Publishing accepts unsolicited submissions during specific submission periods, which are announced on their website.
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Puncher & Wattmann
Who it’s for: Poets writing contemporary, experimental, and traditional poetry.
About: Puncher & Wattmann is one of Australia’s leading independent poetry publishers, known for their wide-ranging list that includes both contemporary and experimental poetry. They are committed to publishing works that challenge and engage readers while promoting Australian poets nationally and internationally.
Submission requirements: Puncher & Wattmann accepts unsolicited submissions. Writers should submit a full poetry manuscript via email, following the guidelines on their website.
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Magabala Books
Who it’s for: Indigenous poets and those writing about Indigenous culture and experiences.
About: Magabala Books is Australia’s leading Indigenous publishing house, based in Broome. They publish poetry collections that celebrate Indigenous voices, focusing on themes such as culture, identity, and connection to the land. Magabala is known for supporting emerging Indigenous poets and promoting works that preserve and explore Indigenous heritage.
Submission requirements: Magabala Books accepts unsolicited submissions via email. Poets should submit a cover letter, synopsis, and sample poems.
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Five Islands Press
Who it’s for: Poets writing contemporary Australian poetry.
About: Five Islands Press is an independent publisher dedicated to publishing Australian poetry. They focus on producing high-quality collections by both emerging and established poets, with a strong emphasis on contemporary voices. Five Islands Press is known for its commitment to promoting Australian poets and fostering new talent.
Submission requirements: Five Islands Press accepts unsolicited submissions during specific reading periods. Writers should check the website for open submission dates and guidelines.
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Black Inc.
Who it’s for: Poets writing contemporary poetry that engages with current social, political, and cultural themes.
About: Black Inc. is an independent Australian publisher known for its diverse catalog of nonfiction, fiction, and poetry. Their poetry list includes collections that often tackle contemporary social and political issues, as well as personal and emotional themes. Black Inc. publishes high-quality poetry collections from both established and emerging poets.
Submission requirements: Black Inc. accepts poetry submissions via email. Writers should submit a cover letter, sample poems, and a synopsis of the collection.
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Cordite Books
Who it’s for: Poets of contemporary, experimental, and avant-garde poetry.
About: Cordite Books is an imprint of the online poetry journal Cordite Poetry Review, focusing on publishing innovative and experimental poetry collections. They are known for pushing the boundaries of form and content, making them a great choice for poets who work in experimental and avant-garde styles.
Submission requirements: Cordite Books accepts submissions through open calls, which are announced on their website. Poets should check for upcoming submission windows.
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Hunter Publishers
Who it’s for: Poets of contemporary and narrative poetry.
About: Hunter Publishers is a small independent press that publishes contemporary poetry collections. They focus on works that engage with both personal and societal themes, often with a narrative element. Hunter Publishers is committed to supporting both new and established poets.
Submission requirements: Hunter Publishers accepts unsolicited submissions. Poets should submit a full manuscript along with a cover letter and synopsis via email.
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Spineless Wonders
Who it’s for: Poets writing micro-poetry, haiku, and experimental forms.
About: Spineless Wonders is an independent publisher with a focus on short-form writing, including micro-poetry, flash fiction, and experimental literature. They are known for promoting innovative writing that challenges traditional forms, making them a great option for poets who specialize in concise, experimental works.
Submission requirements: Spineless Wonders accepts unsolicited submissions during specific submission windows. Writers should check the website for open calls.
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Walleah Press
Who it’s for: Poets writing contemporary Australian poetry.
About: Walleah Press is a small independent press based in Tasmania that focuses on publishing contemporary Australian poetry. They are committed to fostering new Australian voices while supporting established poets. Walleah Press is known for their beautifully produced collections and commitment to promoting literary culture in Australia.
Submission requirements: Walleah Press accepts unsolicited submissions. Writers should check their website for submission guidelines and periods.
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Academic and University Presses in Australia
Australia’s academic and university presses play a crucial role in advancing scholarship and publishing high-quality works across a wide range of disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, law, and the sciences. These publishers often produce books and journals aimed at both academic and general audiences, focusing on subjects that contribute to research, public debate, and education. Below is a comprehensive list of top academic and university presses in Australia, along with their submission guidelines.
Melbourne University Publishing (MUP)
Who it’s for: Academics, researchers, and general readers in history, politics, sociology, and Australian studies.
About: Melbourne University Publishing (MUP) is one of Australia’s leading university presses, known for publishing high-quality academic and trade books on Australian history, politics, and current affairs. MUP focuses on producing books that contribute to public discourse and deepen understanding of Australian culture and society.
Submission requirements: MUP accepts proposals for nonfiction, academic, and scholarly works. Writers should submit a detailed proposal, including a synopsis, sample chapters, and an author bio.
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University of Queensland Press (UQP)
Who it’s for: Scholars, researchers, and writers in literary studies, history, Indigenous studies, and social sciences.
About: University of Queensland Press (UQP) is a well-established Australian publisher known for its strong focus on Indigenous studies, Australian history, and literary criticism. UQP publishes both academic works and general nonfiction, with a commitment to producing books that reflect Australia’s cultural and social diversity.
Submission requirements: UQP accepts unsolicited submissions for academic books during specific open submission periods. Writers should submit a proposal, sample chapters, and a CV.
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Sydney University Press (SUP)
Who it’s for: Academics and researchers in Australian history, cultural studies, archaeology, and law.
About: Sydney University Press is the academic publishing arm of the University of Sydney. SUP publishes scholarly books and journals that cover a wide range of topics, including Australian history, cultural studies, archaeology, law, and public policy. They focus on high-quality, peer-reviewed research.
Submission requirements: SUP accepts proposals for academic books. Writers should submit a detailed synopsis, sample chapters, and an author CV.
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Monash University Publishing
Who it’s for: Academics, scholars, and researchers in the humanities, social sciences, and public policy.
About: Monash University Publishing focuses on works in the humanities, social sciences, and public policy. They are known for publishing books that contribute to academic research while also appealing to general readers. Monash University Publishing has a strong reputation for producing works that explore contemporary social issues.
Submission requirements: Monash University Publishing accepts proposals for scholarly books. Writers should submit a synopsis, sample chapters, and a detailed CV via email.
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UNSW Press (NewSouth Publishing)
Who it’s for: Scholars, researchers, and general readers in history, politics, and current affairs.
About: UNSW Press, also known as NewSouth Publishing, is one of Australia’s leading academic presses. They publish books that focus on Australian history, politics, and social issues, aimed at both academic and general audiences. Their works often address contemporary issues of national and international significance.
Submission requirements: UNSW Press accepts proposals for nonfiction and academic books. Writers should submit a proposal, sample chapters, and a detailed CV via email.
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UWA Publishing (University of Western Australia)
Who it’s for: Academics and scholars in the humanities, Indigenous studies, and Australian literature.
About: UWA Publishing is known for producing high-quality scholarly works, particularly in Indigenous studies, Australian literature, and the humanities. They have a strong focus on works that reflect Australia’s cultural and environmental landscapes, as well as those that contribute to social justice and Indigenous knowledge.
Submission requirements: UWA Publishing accepts proposals for academic works during specific open submission periods. Writers should submit a synopsis, sample chapters, and author bio.
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ANU Press (Australian National University Press)
Who it’s for: Academics and researchers in the humanities, social sciences, science, and Asia-Pacific studies.
About: ANU Press is the publishing arm of the Australian National University, focusing on scholarly works that address key issues in the humanities, social sciences, and science. They have a particular strength in Asia-Pacific studies and are known for their open-access publishing model, which makes academic works freely available online.
Submission requirements: ANU Press accepts proposals for academic works. Writers should submit a detailed proposal, sample chapters, and a CV.
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CSIRO Publishing
Who it’s for: Researchers, academics, and professionals in science, environment, and agriculture.
About: CSIRO Publishing is a division of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and specializes in scientific books, journals, and reference works. They are known for publishing high-quality research in environmental science, agriculture, and health sciences, with a focus on works that have practical applications and address global challenges.
Submission requirements: CSIRO Publishing accepts proposals for scholarly and reference books. Writers should submit a proposal, sample chapters, and author bio via email.
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Adelaide University Press
Who it’s for: Academics and researchers in history, literature, and public policy.
About: Adelaide University Press focuses on publishing scholarly works in history, literature, and public policy. They support open-access publishing, making their books freely available online, and are committed to contributing to academic discourse in Australia and internationally.
Submission requirements: Adelaide University Press accepts proposals for academic works. Writers should submit a synopsis, sample chapters, and author bio via email.
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Finding the Right Publisher for Your Work
Choosing the right publisher, especially within the specialized world of academic and genre-specific publishing, can make a significant difference in your book's success.
Whether you’re submitting poetry, literary fiction, genre fiction, nonfiction, or scholarly works, knowing where your manuscript fits best is crucial. Each publisher on this list offers unique opportunities for writers, and many have specific submission guidelines that should be followed carefully.
Before submitting, it’s essential to research each press thoroughly, ensuring your work aligns with their catalog and mission. Many publishers require literary agents for submissions, particularly the larger ones, while smaller presses may accept unsolicited manuscripts or have contests for new writers. Getting these details right is key to ensuring your work gets the attention it deserves.
Feeling unsure about where to begin or need guidance on preparing your submission? Book a consultation with me, and I will help you navigate the publishing process, craft a compelling submission, and find the best fit for your manuscript.
Let’s get your work in front of the right publishers—schedule your consultation today!
Article by Leandre Larouche
Leandre Larouche is a writer, coach, and the founder of Trivium Writing.
