Stella is a major voice for gender equality and cultural change in Australian literature. Founded in 2012, the organisation’s flagship program is the annual Stella Prize – a major literary award celebrating Australian women’s writing.
Stella also delivers a suite of year-round initiatives which actively champion Australian women writers, tackle gender bias in the literary sector, and connect outstanding books with readers.
Stella strives to promote books by Australian women and non-binary writers, support greater participation in the world of literature, and create a more equitable and vibrant national culture.
“The Australian publishing industry has really come back to life after the pandemic, and this year we were blown away by the creative risks taken by authors, poets, artists and publishers. Our longlist showcases the energy of this re-emergence. In these pages you will find pathos, rage, wild, joyful swagger, a mourning of our own mortality but also a celebration of our finite selves. We are beyond excited to share this list with readers.”
Alice Pung, Chair of the Judges
FAST FACTS
Stella knows women need two precious resources to write: time and space. Stella awards significant funds directly to women writers through the Stella Prize, which can literally buy them time to write their next book
Women writers make an invaluable contribution to Australian literature and cultural life
Through Stella’s public events and digital platforms, Stella raises the profile of women writers, drives significant book sales, and connects them to an ever-growing community of readers
Stella recognises that high-quality research is critical to tackling gender bias and promoting positive change
Stella believes storytelling and reading are essential tools by which to understand ourselves, foster connections with others, and learn about the world around us