Affirm Press Fellowship
Writers of crime, thriller and mystery novels are invited to apply for the opportunity to develop exceptional new work through editorial feedback during a week in residence at Varuna.
Applications now closed
Residency dates: 28 April - 5 May 2025
Places: Up to four writers will be selected.
Who should apply: Writers developing an original crime, thriller or mystery novel that is not under contract to a publisher.
Fees: There is an application fee of $70, or $40 if you have a Healthcare card.
Recipients are asked to make a contribution of $385 towards the residency and will need to meet their own travel expenses. If you have a Healthcare card, you may apply to the Varuna Travel Assistance Fund for a subsidy of up to $350.
If you are experiencing financial hardship, you can have your fees waived via the Varuna Equity Access Fund.
Please read the FAQ before you apply.
Melbourne-based publisher Affirm Press is dedicated to publishing great Australian stories and building relationships with emerging local writers.
Writers of crime, thriller and mystery novels are invited to apply for one of four places for this week-long residency at Varuna. The week includes independent writing time in your own private writing studio and all meals. Affirm Press editors also stay in residence, providing editorial support and guidance, and meeting with each writer at the beginning and end of the week to discuss their projects, as well as providing manuscript feedback as necessary.
After the residency, Affirm Press will be able to offer general advice up to completion of a completed or reworked draft. It is important for applicants to note that this program does not come with a guarantee of publication.
HOW TO APPLY
You will need to complete a short application form and send us between 7,000 and 10,000 words from the beginning of your manuscript, along with a synopsis of the entire work.
Applicants must be available to attend the residency week which takes place from 28 April - 5 May 2025.
Affirm Press is on the hunt for crime, thriller and mystery novels – the twistier and more addictive the better. Submissions of works outside this description will not be accepted.
Applications are now closed for residency in 2025