Varuna’s Publisher Introduction Program 2020

Applications close 11 November 2019

A pathway to publication

Would you like the opportunity to have your work read by one of Australia's leading publishers, with a view to possible publication? Our Publisher Introduction Program (PIP) offers just that, along with a seven-day residency at Varuna and a manuscript consultation with one of Varuna's writing consultants.

Each year, our Varuna assessors select the work of 25 writers to be read by one of our participating publishers. From that pool, our publishers choose five writers to receive a PIP Development Residency, which includes a seven-day residency at Varuna, extended manuscript consultation and a half-day publishing workshop. Up to five further writers will receive a PIP Pathways Residency, which includes a seven-day residency and a one-hour Varuna conversation with one of Varuna's writing consultants. Each publisher provides feedback as to what drew them to your work, and commits to reading your manuscript again at the end of your fellowship period.

In 2020, participating publishers include Allen and Unwin, Black Inc, HardieGrant, HarperCollins, Pan Macmillan, Penguin Random House, UQP and UWA Publishing. To find out what each of our publishers are looking for this year, click here.

What writers say

I'm finally able to announce that Pan Macmillan have signed me up on a two-book deal. A new chapter begins. I must thank Varuna House and the Publishing Introduction Program; its amazing mentors and supporters have helped me get to this point in my writing career. Writing dreams really do come true!

Taryn Bashford, PIP 2016

While being chosen to participate in this program does not guarantee publication, this fellowship presents many opportunities both for emerging and established writers. You will have an opportunity to immerse yourself in your writing, gather with other writers in a collegiate environment, receive support from a literary mentor, and be eligible to join the prestigious Varuna alumni.

For full details and to apply, click here.