The Aluminium Crown Short Story Contest

The Aluminium Crown Short Story Contest is a themed writing competition run by The Aluminium Crown Contest Collective, a small independent organisation based in Melbourne, Australia. Now in its second year, the contest is built around a speculative prompt tied to a fictional future event — in 2026, a story premise involving Melbourne’s Central Business District being enclosed in a protective structure called the “Central Business Cube.” Entrants must write an original story that engages with this central conceit, though they have creative freedom in setting and approach.

Submissions close 31 October 2026, with one original entry per author (single or multi-authored) accepted, Entrants must be 18 or older, and stories must be unpublished elsewhere (including on blogs or social media). Judging is anonymous: a panel will select a longlist of 20, then a shortlist of three, before choosing a first-place winner by consensus. A separate “Judge’s Prize” story also receives publication but no cash award.

The contest is funded entirely through a container deposit scheme (recycling cans and bottles for cash in Victoria, Australia), with organisers topping up any shortfall to guarantee the AUD$300 minimum prize. Winning stories are published on the contest website, and the organisers are considering a print edition in future years if the contest grows.

Is this event legit?YES! – Based on our research this event is legitimate and the organizer is well established. However, as with any opportunity, please remember to do your own research before submitting your work. Check the organizer’s website and carefully read the terms and conditions!

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