The John Marsden Story Prize
The John Marsden Story Prize is now open to young writers of high school age based in Central Victoria.
The John Marsden Story Prize celebrates the legacy of Australian author John Marsden, whose writing, teaching and mentorship has influenced generations of Australians.
Entries close 11.59pm on Friday 14 August 2026.
Scroll for T&C + Entry details
Free Entry
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Celebrating Young Writers
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John Marsden Story Prize
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Closes 14 August 2026
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Free Entry · Celebrating Young Writers · John Marsden Story Prize · Closes 14 August 2026 ·
Terms & Conditions of Entry
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Who can enter?
Young writers of high-school age can enter in one of our three age categories:
Year 7 & Year 8
Year 9 & Year 10
Year 11 & Year 12
If you are not currently attending school, please enter the most appropriate category by age.
Entrants must reside in a Central Victorian LGA:
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What can I write about?
This is a prize for FICTION writing, in prose or poetry form.
You can write about any topic you like, it can be a story, or part of a story.
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Nitty Gritty
500 words maximum
One entry per person
It must be your own work and not previously published
Artificial Intelligence must not be used to create the work
We ask that you provide a representative to certify that it is your own work (such as your English teacher).
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How to enter?
Entry is FREE
Submit your entry using the online form below.
PDF or Word documents accepted.
Entries close 11.59 on 14 August. No late entries sorry.
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