Are you a poet… and you do know it?

Monday October 14 may come as a surprise,
Submissions close for the Bruce Dawe National Poetry Prize!
So, if you haven't entered - it's time to advance,
Don't wait too long; now's your chance!

For all people and poets passionate about the written word, it’s time to dust off the old pen and pencil and get writing as submissions are open for the 2024 Bruce Dawe National Poetry Prize.

The University of Southern Queensland’s (UniSQ) Bruce Dawe National Poetry Prize is one of the richest accolades in Australian poetry, established 25 years ago by Bruce Dawe AO following his long tenure as a lecturer at the University.

The distinguished poetry competition honours the acclaimed contemporary poet’s legacy and passion for the arts and offers new and established poets a unique opportunity to write their way into the history books.

With record numbers of entries over the past few years, Chair of the Bruce Dawe National Poetry Prize Judging Panel Professor Laurie Johnson said the 2024 competition was shaping up to be one of the best yet.

“With every year that passes, we’re seeing more and more interest from a wider cross section of society – including Australians based overseas,” Professor Johnson said.

“With this expansion into different parts of the world, we’re hoping to surpass our peak and hit the magical number of 2,000 entries from 1,000 entrants this year.”

As for the tone of the entries, Professor Johnson said Bruce Dawe’s gift of expressing both the fun and the gravity of issues people face in all walks of life would inspire the works of many in 2024.

“It’s no secret that the world is currently facing many challenges, and creatives often wonder how they can make an impact,” he said.

“As Bruce Dawe preached, poetry is one of the most powerful tools for finding a voice at times when people might feel voiceless.

“This year’s competition offers the perfect platform for those wanting to delve into their emotions and express themselves.

“And what better way to do it than through their carefully curated words.”

The winner of UniSQ’s 2024 Bruce Dawe National Poetry Prize will receive $3000. Two highly commended entrants will be awarded $500 each. Submissions close October 14.