The wait is over for Australia's most anticipated literary event as the shortlist for the 2025 Miles Franklin Literary Award has been revealed. Six outstanding authors have been selected for the country's most prestigious literary prize, worth AU$60,000.
A Celebration of Australian Storytelling
Now in its 68th year, the Miles Franklin Award continues to honour novels of the highest literary merit that present Australian life in any of its phases. This year's shortlist showcases an exciting mix of established names and emerging voices, all competing for the honour of joining previous winners like Tim Winton and Michelle de Kretser.
The 2025 Shortlisted Authors and Works
- Jane Harper - Outback Echoes (her fourth Miles Franklin nomination)
- Tara June Winch - The Yield Returns (previous winner returns with powerful sequel)
- Michael Mohammed Ahmad - Western Sydney Stories (groundbreaking urban narrative)
- Larissa Behrendt - Songlines of the City (Indigenous perspectives in modern Australia)
- Christos Tsiolkas - The New Australians (provocative examination of multiculturalism)
- Charlotte Wood - The Natural Order (feminist exploration of bush life)
Judges Praise Exceptional Quality
This year's judging panel, chaired by renowned critic James Bradley, described the selection process as "exceptionally challenging" due to the high quality of submissions. "These six novels represent the very best of contemporary Australian fiction," Bradley commented. "Each offers a unique lens through which to view our complex national identity."
What Makes the Miles Franklin Special?
Established through the will of author Stella Maria Sarah Miles Franklin, the prize has become the benchmark for Australian literary excellence. Unlike other major awards, entries must specifically deal with Australian life, making it a unique celebration of national storytelling.
The winner will be announced at a gala ceremony in Sydney on 15th September 2025. All shortlisted authors will receive AU$5,000, with the overall winner taking home the substantial prize money and guaranteed literary fame.
