About Us

As the peak body for writing and associated activities in WA, writingWA seeks to advance the collective interests of our member organisations and the literary sector in WA.

writingWA's Mission

"To foster literary talent and achievement, develop markets for Western Australian writing, and promote excellence in writing as integral to our social, economic and individual well-being."

writingWA's Vision

"A strong Western Australian writing sector and strong markets for Western Australian writing."

writingWA pursues its Mission and Vision by:

  • Promoting Western Australian publications

through state-wide programmes such as Writers in Libraries, The Premier's Summer Reading Challenge, and Writers on the Road; by directing funding to enable greater representation of West Australian authors in regional Writers Festivals; and by showcasing new publications in our e-news broadcasts and other communications products.

  • Providing training and networking opportunities to the Western Australian publishing sector

 through the Publisher Training Programme

  • Increasing revenue streams for professional writers and illustrators

by providing direct employment in a range of programmes - Writers on the Road, Writers in Libraries, Regional Development Programme, Premier's Summer Reading Challenge - and by promoting the skills and services of WA authors and illustrators to other potential employers via writingWA's interactive Literati database 

  • supporting the professional development of emerging writers and illustrators

through initiatives such as the Regional Writing Group Workshops programme, Varuna Longlines programme, Broometime Writers in Residence project, TAG Hungerford Award, Indigenous Illustrators Workshop project, Apropos Poetry Conference, facilitation of ASA WA events and workshops, and auspicing of initiatives on behalf of member organisations eg the Society of Book Writers and Illustrators Conference

  • promoting greater use of the Western Australian Public Library Service

through programmes such as Writers in Libraries and the Premier's Summer Reading Challenge

  • providing free and timely access to relevant industry information

 through our e-newsletter distributed fortnightly, and regularly updated website information

  • continuing to advocate on behalf of the Western Australian writing sector

 to government, media, and other industry bodies in order to raise awareness and improve opportunities for the sector