2026 Youth Writing Competition

Celebrating young voices, creativity and storytelling.

We’re excited to open entries for our 2026 Youth Writing Competition, an opportunity for young people to share their stories and be celebrated as part of the Shepparton Arts Festival.

The competition is open to writers ages up to 25, with three age categories:

• 12 years & Under

• 13–17 years

• 18–25 years

This competition is designed to be fully accessible - there is no required theme, no set genre, and no limitations on style. Fiction, non-fiction, personal storytelling, poetry, creative writing, or something completely unexpected… we want to hear the stories you want to tell.

This competition is open to young people aged 8–25 who live within the Greater Shepparton & surrounding areas. Entrants must provide their residential postcode as part of the submission process to confirm eligibility.

How It Works

Submit a written piece of up to 1,000 words. You can write in any style, on any subject. We encourage creativity, honesty, imagination and expression from young writers of all backgrounds.

All entries will be reviewed throughout February by members of the GV Writers Group. We’re grateful for their expertise and commitment to supporting emerging young writers in our region. Winners will be selected based on creativity, clarity, originality, and overall impact - with consideration given to age and developmental stage.

Prizes

Each category winner will receive:

A $250 JB Hi-Fi voucher, and an invitation to present their winning piece at our Literary Lunch on Saturday 28 March 2026.

Important: Reading your piece at the Literary Lunch is considered part of the prize and a requirement of winning. If reading aloud is not accessible for any reason, we can arrange an alternative presentation (e.g., your piece read by a host or a support person).

Timeline

• Entries open: NOW

• Entries close: 31 January 2026

• Judging: Throughout February 2026

• Winners contacted: Early–mid March 2026

• Winners present winning work: Saturday 28 March 2026 at festival event, Literary Lunch with Tracey Spicer

How to Enter

Submit your piece via the entry form below. You’ll be asked to upload your work and provide your contact information (or parent/guardian details if under 18).

If you have any questions about accessibility, eligibility or the submission process, please contact us via hello@sheppartonfestival.org.au - we’re here to support all young writers to participate.