December, 2026
Event Details
The Newcastle Poetry Prize is a single-poem competition hosted by Hunter Writers’ Centre. Now in its 45th year, it is one of Australia’s longest-running poetry prizes. The prize is open to
Event Details
The Newcastle Poetry Prize is a single-poem competition hosted by Hunter Writers’ Centre. Now in its 45th year, it is one of Australia’s longest-running poetry prizes.
The prize is open to poems of any length up to 200 lines. There is no set theme. Poems must be original and must not have been previously published in print or online. Entrants may submit any number of poems, with each poem requiring its own entry and fee. Hunter Writers’ Centre members receive a discounted entry fee of A$30.25.
The first prize is A$10,000, with A$5,000 for second place, A$2,500 for third and A$500 for highly commended. Three additional prizes are also awarded: the Harri Jones Memorial Prize (A$1,500) for poets under 36, the Jan Dean Members Prize (A$1,000) for a Hunter Writers’ Centre member, and the Kade Fenwick Prize (A$500) recognising poetry from First Nations and trans voices.
Winning and shortlisted poems are published in the annual anthology. Shortlisted poets who do not win a prize receive a A$100 publication fee. Winners will be announced at the anthology launch at the Newcastle Writers Festival on 3 April 2027.
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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