Helping a writer under 30 fulfil their novel-writing ambitions

Writing NSW invites writers under 30 to apply for Novel Next Steps. This program aims to support a young writer to develop their novel-in-progress with a subsidised year-long novel writing course, space to write, and a one-year Writing NSW membership.

Presented by Writing NSW with the support of Bruce McCabe, Novel Next Steps will give an aspiring young writer access to our flagship novel writing course, Year of the Novel. This course has provided the foundations for several successful debut authors over the years. Writers such as Nardi Simpson, Zaheda Ghani, and Clare Fletcher all published their first books following completion of this course. In 2025, Year of the Novel will be taught by best-selling and award-winning author, Ashley Kalagian Blunt.

Novel Next Steps provides greater access to a young writer who may not have the financial means to cover the full price of Year of the Novel.

Our 2024 winner, Brittany Riley said of Novel Next Steps:

The Novel Next Steps program was the tool that carved my first draft. The weekly lessons were educational and fresh and offered practical plans for battling unruly pages. This course has made me a better writer, and I am eager to continue cementing my place in the Australian literary landscape with a manuscript in tow. I am grateful to Bruce McCabe and Writing NSW for this prized opportunity.

In 2025, the successful recipient of Novel Next Steps will receive:

• A subsidised place in our Year of the Novel 2025 in-person course at a subsidised cost of $850 (standard full price is usually $2850)
• A one-month dedicated writing space in the Shared Writing Space at Writing NSW in Callan Park, Lilyfield (with 24-hour building access and parking)
• One-year membership with Writing NSW and all associated member benefits and discounts

Year of the Novel is conducted in person at Writing NSW in Lilyfield. Applicants must be able to provide their own transport to attend the workshops and take advantage of the dedicated writing space. Writing NSW has various transport options that can be viewed here.

Applications for 2025 have now closed.

More about Year of the Novel with Ashley Kalagian Blunt:

Make 2025 the year you finally write that book in this course from acclaimed author Ashley Kalagian Blunt. Over three phases of eight weeks each, you’ll receive the tools, support and encouragement you need to plan, write and edit your novel. Year of the Novel 2025 is now open for enrolments. Secure your place in the course here.