FIRST PEOPLES INDIA-AUSTRALIA EXCHANGE FAQ
Who can apply?
This fellowship is open to First Nations writers at any career stage who are available to undertake the residency during the programmed dates. In India, two Adivasi writers will be selected for the program, and in Australia, two First Nations writers will be selected.
When is the residency?
Writers will need to be able to attend Varuna 20 - 27 October 2025, and Sangam House in April 2026.
How much is the application fee for the program?
There are no application fees for this program.
If I am successful, are there any fees for participating in the program?
No. The fellowship covers travel, accommodation and all residency costs. You will also be paid a per diem of $35 per day while in residence at Sangam House.
What is expected in terms of collaboration with the Adivasi writers?
This fellowship is designed as an exchange between First Nations and Adivasi writers. At each residency, the local writers will act as hosts in the first week of the program, with some structured opportunities for workshopping and collaboration.
When will I be notified regarding the outcome of my application?
You will be notified of the outcome of your submission by email in January 2025, and the fellowship recipients will be announced on our website.
Will I receive feedback upon my work?
Unfortunately, selectors are not able to discuss the selection process or offer individual feedback to unsuccessful applicants.
I’ve missed the deadline. Can I still submit an application?
No. Unfortunately no applications will be accepted after the deadline date.
Is there a word limit for my submission?
Yes, the word limit is up to 5,000 words. If you are working in genres that require fewer words, such as children’s literature, screenwriting, playwriting, graphic novels or poetry, you may submit up to 10 pages.
Can I apply for more than one Varuna fellowship at a time?
Yes. If more than one fellowship program is open, you are welcome to apply for as many programs as you wish.
SANGAM HOUSE FAQ
Please check out the Sangam House website before you apply.
Getting to Sangam House
The fellowship includes all travel to reach Sangam House, including international flights, as well as visa fees. Your Sangam administrator will be in touch with you prior to your arrival to confirm travel from the airport via taxi.
What Sangam House provides
Sangam House provides board and lodge to resident writers. They do not cover the cost of telephone calls, medical needs, postage and other general expenses that you might incur during your stay.
During your stay, all meals will be served in the dining room at a designated time. Your personal information form will give you an opportunity to clearly state your dietary restrictions. You are free to make your own breakfast at whatever time suits you. The kitchen is stocked with a large range of fresh ingredients and groceries as well as seasonal fruit. Lunch and Dinner will be placed on the dining table in covered serving dishes. Lunch is available between 1pm and 2.30pm. Dinner is available between 7.30pm and 9.30pm.
Days away from Sangam House
During your residency period, you are free to spend nights away from Sangam House. However, stays of more than 4 nights away in total during your four-week residency are not permitted. If you are making plans to travel in the area, please make sure that you do so either before or after your residency time.
Is Sangam House wheelchair accessible?
Sangam House is not wheelchair accessible. They do have two rooms on the ground floor for those with limited mobility, but note that there are a couple of steps into the house.
Can a support worker stay with me during my residency?
Unfortunately, there will not be room at Sangam House to accommodate support workers, and the funding we have available wouldn’t cover their travel or salary. If, however, you have the capacity to cover these costs we would be happy to help you find them accommodation nearby.