Frequently Asked Questions - Newcastle Short Story Award
Important to know
What are the top four tips for entering the Newcastle Short Story Award?
- Do not include your name in the submitted document–either in the title or within the body of work
- Read the FAQs and Terms and Condition thoroughly
- Do not enter a work that has been published before.
- Read your story out loud to check if your story reads smoothly.
What are the common mistakes that make an entry ineligible?
- Name in entry, either within document, or in the filename.
- Over word count. Titles, subtitles, and other extras are included in the word count. This includes any words in the header and footer.
- Track changes within document
Before you enter
Who can enter the competition?
Australian citizens or permanent residents aged 18 years or older, regardless of where they live.
Is there a theme I need to write on?
No. You’re welcome to write on any subject.
Does my short story have to be fiction?
Yes. The Newcastle Short Story Award is for works of short fiction only.
Can I enter more than once?
Yes. There’s no limit to the number of entries. One story = one entry = one entry fee.
Can I use a pseudonym?
Yes. You’ll need to supply both your real name and your chosen pseudonym on the entry form. Your real name will never be shared publicly.
What if my story is written for children?
The award is intended for works written for adult readers.
Preparing your submission
What is the word limit?
2,000 words maximum, including title and any subheadings. There is no minimum.
What file formats do you accept?
Only Microsoft Word documents (.doc or .docx).
How should I format my story?
Use a standard font such as Times New Roman or Arial, 12 pt, 1.5 spacing.
Include your story title at the top and number your pages.
Do titles, subheadings or extras count towards the word count?
Yes. Titles, subtitles, dedications, and other additions are included in the word count—even if they appear in the header or footer.
Can I include images, drawings, or illustrations?
No. Text only.
Can I use AI tools to help me write?
You must write the story yourself. Generative AI tools (like ChatGPT, Sudowrite, etc.) must not be used to write or substantially edit your story. Standard digital aids like spellcheck or grammar correction are fine. If you do use AI in any way, please disclose it in your entry form.
What happens if my name appears in the document?
Entries are judged blind. If your name appears in the story or the filename, the submission will be ineligible.
What if I want to submit a story I’ve entered in a past year?
If the story was previously entered but not selected or published, you can resubmit it. If it has been published in any form, it is not eligible.
What counts as ‘published’?
Any form of publication—including in print, on a blog, in social media writing groups, or elsewhere online—is considered published.
Submitting your story
How do I submit my entry?
Via the online entry form on the Newcastle Short Story Award webpage. Upload your story and pay the entry fee.
What are the entry fees?
$22 (incl. GST) per story for Hunter Writers’ Centre members
$27.50 (incl. GST) per story for non-members
What’s the deadline to enter?
Entries close at 8 pm AEST, Sunday 12 July 2026.
How do I know my story has been received?
You’ll receive a confirmation email with a copy of your entry form. If it doesn’t arrive within 24 hours, check your spam or junk folder. If you still don’t see it, contact us at contact @ hunterwriterscentre.org
If you submit on the day submissions close, you will have a window of 24 hours let us know you have not received your confirmation.
Tips for Entrants
Read these FAQs and the Terms and Conditions carefully
Only submit original, unpublished work
Do not include your name anywhere in the document or filename
Read your story out loud — it helps you catch awkward phrasing and errors
Ask a friend to check for spelling and grammar issues.
Need inspiration?
We recommend reading a past Newcastle Short Story Award anthology to get a sense of the diversity and quality of work selected in previous years.
