• How to Get Started with Freelance Writing in Australia
    Industry

    A little-known fact is that most Australian publications are open to unsolicited pitches. That means that emerging writers can find themselves in the same magazines and journals as big-name writers such as Benjamin Law. And you don't need to sacrifice your whole life for it, either; you can build industry connections, find a niche of your own, and create a published portfolio while still working or studying full time.

    Of course, the whole industry can be a daunting place for someone just starting out, with no understanding of the industry. This is a gentle, step-by-step guide on building connections, a portfolio, and a career.

  • 4 Pantsing Methods for NaNoWriMo
    Craft

    So, NaNoWriMo is about to start, and you haven't got a plot. Don't panic! Writing a novel without a comprehensive plan is an exciting endeavour, and it is definitely not impossible. The fun in pantsing is in the uncertainty; rather than painting-by-numbers, you get to create your story piece by piece, and discover the story along with the reader.

    Here are 4 methods of writing a novel without a plan (and without panic).

  • How to Research for Your Novel
    Craft

    Once you've got a few ideas for your novel, the next step is to learn as much about the topic and setting as possible. This is to be done in conjunction with plotting your novel because to explore the best form and sequence of events for your novel, you need to understand at least some of the background knowledge. But finding relevant and accurate information is a challenge—not to mention keeping track of it!

  • How to Create Characters that Speak to You
    Craft

    The characters in your novel are just as important as the stuff that happens to them. You (and your readers) are going to be spending a lot of time with them, so it's important to make them worth reading about. Note that they do not have to be likeable, but they do have to be interesting, and there should be a reason that they are in your novel.

    This post will take you through a method of creating characters that will be relevant to your novel, interesting to you and that have their own voice. It is likely that this voice will change and develop as you keep writing your novel, but this post is designed to give you a jumping-off point. As you go through the process, make note of anything you need to research later so you don't get distracted.

  • 10 Organisations That Support Australian Writers
    Industry

    Many writers have no connection to the industry. Often, they feel unsure of how to break in to the community or get their work noticed. But there are many organisations that support writers and their work, and provide professional development, alternate publishing pathways, connection to the community and advocacy. These organisations can truly help you get to the next level in your career.

    Even if it seems as though these organisations have a different target market to what you're doing, it is worth sending them an enquiry. Often arts organisations will be able to mould their services around what you need, or provide you with advice on where to find the help you're after.

  • 5 Apps for a Productive Writing Life
    Resources

    I'm not even going to lie; it has taken me forever to figure out a way to keep my whole life on track, let alone the writing parts. Being able to plan everything in my life has given me the freedom to be able to spend time writing without letting anything else fall by the wayside—not to mention that now I can track writing opportunities, competitions, submission deadlines and goals, and all the books and articles I can't wait to read!

    Here are the 5 'regular' apps that I use all the time, that work together to make my productivity system and keep my professional, personal AND writing lives under control.