Connecting Australian and Irish writers, this two-week online fellowship is an opportunity for published fiction writers to enjoy the combined mentorship and support of Varuna and the Irish Writers Centre. Find inspiration, enjoy professional development opportunities, and build international connections.
Dates: 6.30pm – 7.30pm (AEST), Monday – Friday, 9 – 20 June 2025
Applications close: 17 March 2025
Places: Four Australian and four Irish writers will be selected
Who should apply: Published fiction writers with an interest in international exchange
Fees: There is an application fee of $25 for this program. Those experiencing financial hardship can have their fees waived via the Varuna Equity Fund.
This fee helps to cover the administrative costs of this program and pays our assessors for their time reading your work.
This two-week online fellowship includes:
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An hour-long one-on-one conversation with Mary Anne Butler and Conor Kostick to talk about your current work.
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Facilitated professional networking opportunities with your peers, including the opportunity to share work, talk about process, and receive feedback.
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An online Q&A session with best-selling Australian author Pip Williams.
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An online Q&A session with an award-winning Irish writer (to be announced).
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An online industry exchange, with representatives from the Irish and Australian publishing industries, including Penguin Random House Australia publisher Meredith Curnow and more to be announced.
The expectation is that you will spend at least three hours dedicated writing time each day (although this is flexible according to your own personal circumstances), and that you will be available for all evening sessions, Monday – Friday, 9 – 20 June 2025.
Participants will need a reliable internet connection, and a computer or mobile phone with a webcam and microphone.
For more information, visit varuna.com.au
