Deadline: 01-Sep-2026
Creative Australia is inviting Australian rights managers and publishers to apply for membership in the Visiting International Publishers (VIPs) Committee for the 2027–2029 term. Selected committee members will help promote Australian literature globally, support international publishing connections, select visiting publishers and agents, and contribute to industry events during the Sydney Writers’ Festival.
Program Overview
Creative Australia is seeking experienced Australian publishing professionals to join the Visiting International Publishers (VIPs) Committee for the 2027–2029 period.
The committee plays an important role in connecting Australian writers and publishers with international publishing markets. Members support the promotion of Australian literary talent, strengthen global publishing relationships, and help create opportunities for Australian books to reach international audiences.
The VIPs program brings international publishers, literary scouts, and agents to Australia to engage directly with the Australian publishing sector through networking activities, business meetings, and industry discussions.
Program at a Glance
- Program Name: Visiting International Publishers (VIPs) Committee
- Funding Organization: Creative Australia
- Term Period: 2027–2029
- Location: Sydney, Australia
- Sector: Publishing and literature
- Eligible Applicants: Australian rights managers and publishers
- Honorarium: AUD $2,000
- Additional Support: Travel, accommodation, and official event meals
Program Objectives
The VIPs Committee aims to:
- Showcase Australian literary talent internationally.
- Promote Australian books and authors in global markets.
- Increase international rights sales for Australian titles.
- Strengthen relationships between Australian and international publishing professionals.
- Encourage cross-cultural publishing partnerships.
- Support global exchange within the publishing industry.
- Build networks between publishers, agents, scouts, and rights managers.
About the Visiting International Publishers (VIPs) Program
The Visiting International Publishers (VIPs) program is an annual industry initiative that connects international publishing professionals with Australia’s publishing community.
The week-long program takes place in Sydney during the Sydney Writers’ Festival and includes:
- Business meetings.
- Professional networking events.
- Publishing industry discussions.
- Industry forum panel sessions.
- Meetings between Australian publishers and international rights buyers.
The program helps international publishers discover Australian authors, literary works, and publishing opportunities.
Committee Responsibilities
Selected committee members will contribute to the planning and delivery of the VIPs program.
Responsibilities include:
Selecting International Participants
Committee members will:
- Review and select international publishers, scouts, and literary agents.
- Identify suitable participants who can contribute to global publishing connections.
- Support the international representation of the program.
Program Planning and Delivery
Committee members will assist with:
- Designing program activities.
- Planning industry events.
- Supporting networking opportunities.
- Helping deliver the industry forum.
Industry Forum Participation
Members will:
- Host one panel discussion during the industry forum.
- Share publishing expertise and industry knowledge.
- Support conversations about international publishing trends.
Hosting and Networking
Committee members will:
- Be available during the VIPs program week in Sydney.
- Welcome and engage with visiting international professionals.
- Support professional relationship building.
International Promotion
Members will help:
- Promote the VIPs program internationally.
- Encourage suitable publishers and agents to participate.
- Increase awareness of Australian publishing opportunities.
Why This Opportunity Matters
The global publishing industry continues to evolve through changing consumer behaviour, digital transformation, and international collaboration.
The VIPs Committee helps:
- Expand international opportunities for Australian writers.
- Increase visibility of Australian literature.
- Develop global publishing partnerships.
- Strengthen Australia’s role in international book markets.
- Encourage cultural exchange through literature.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Australian rights managers.
- Australian publishers working in:
- Adult fiction.
- Adult non-fiction.
- Children’s publishing.
- Younger readers’ literature.
- Combined adult and children’s publishing lists.
Applicants must demonstrate professional experience and industry knowledge.
Applicant Requirements
Applicants should have:
- Strong knowledge of the Australian publishing industry.
- Experience managing publishing rights or publishing activities.
- Understanding of international publishing markets.
- Established international professional networks.
- Passion for Australian writers and literature.
- Ability to contribute to industry discussions and events.
Applicants must also meet the general eligibility requirements of Creative Australia.
Ineligibility Criteria
Applicants cannot apply if they:
- Have an overdue grant report with Creative Australia.
- Owe money to Creative Australia.
- Do not meet Creative Australia’s general eligibility requirements.
Benefits and Support Provided
Successful committee members will receive:
- Honorarium: AUD $2,000.
Creative Australia’s Writing Australia will also provide:
- Return economy airfare to Sydney.
- Accommodation during official program dates.
- Meals provided during official VIPs events.
Applicants are responsible for:
- Additional travel expenses.
- Personal costs outside official activities.
- Other participation-related expenses.
How to Apply
Applicants should follow these steps:
- Confirm eligibility as an Australian publishing professional.
- Prepare information demonstrating publishing experience and international knowledge.
- Explain experience with rights management, publishing, or literary promotion.
- Highlight international networks and industry connections.
- Describe interest in supporting Australian literature globally.
- Submit the application according to Creative Australia requirements.
Selection Considerations
Applications are expected to be assessed based on:
- Publishing industry experience.
- Knowledge of Australian literature.
- International market understanding.
- Professional networks.
- Ability to contribute to VIPs activities.
- Commitment to promoting Australian writers and publishing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
- Providing limited information about publishing experience.
- Failing to demonstrate international market knowledge.
- Not explaining their contribution to the VIPs program.
- Ignoring eligibility requirements.
- Applying without evidence of professional publishing networks.
Tips for a Strong Application
Applicants can strengthen their applications by:
- Highlighting successful rights sales or international collaborations.
- Demonstrating knowledge of global publishing trends.
- Explaining experience working with authors and publishers.
- Showing commitment to promoting Australian literature.
- Providing examples of industry leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Visiting International Publishers (VIPs) Committee?
The VIPs Committee is a Creative Australia initiative that supports international publishing connections and promotes Australian literature globally.
Who can apply for the committee position?
Australian rights managers and publishers working in adult, children’s, fiction, or non-fiction publishing can apply.
What is the duration of the committee term?
The selected committee members will serve for the 2027–2029 term.
What support do selected members receive?
Members receive a AUD $2,000 honorarium, return economy airfare to Sydney, accommodation, and meals at official VIPs events.
Where does the VIPs program take place?
The annual program takes place in Sydney during the Sydney Writers’ Festival.
What role do committee members play?
Committee members select international participants, support program planning, host industry discussions, participate in networking activities, and promote the program internationally.
Can someone with overdue Creative Australia obligations apply?
No. Applicants with overdue grant reports or outstanding payments to Creative Australia are not eligible.
Conclusion
The Creative Australia Visiting International Publishers (VIPs) Committee provides an opportunity for experienced Australian publishing professionals to shape international literary exchange and strengthen global recognition of Australian writers. Through collaboration, networking, and industry leadership, committee members help expand international publishing opportunities and connect Australian stories with audiences worldwide.
For more information, visit Creative Australia.
