AustLit

'In October 1962, the inaugural meeting of the proposed Society of Authors was held, to end the present feudal state of the Australian writer' and address the issues of 'poor and variable anthology fees, the need for standard contracts and the position regarding copyright' (Dal Stivens. foundation president). Broadside, the first journal of the Australian Society of Authors, began in September 1963 as a 'medium of information and opinion', and fulfilled that role until the last edition was published in July 1968 to make way for the launch of The Australian Author in 1969. This magazine was never intended as a literary puma\ and, as a result, did not meet the funding criteria of the time. Rather, its purpose was to 'concentrate attention on the defence of literary property—the writer's business (Stephany Steggall, Status and Sugar, 2013), which is exactly what it did for the next 50 years. ' (Publication summary)
 

'Candice Fox, Peter Carey, Amal Awad, Emily Maguire and Matthew Reilly discuss getting knocked down and getting back. 

Plus:

• cultivating adaptability 
• exploring alternatives 
• advice for toughing it out 
• famous authors who were rejected 

(Publication abstract) 

'I am excited about this edition of Australian Author because I believe it is hugely important that an organisation dedicated to advocacy and support for writers does not avoid discussing the issues facing our industry. Indeed, I believe it is incumbent on us to both inform and challenge in order to encourage authors and publishers alike, to eschew the safety of the middle ground in favour of celebrating the richness and colour of difference.

'Brave writing may be controversial, opinionated, dangerous and challenging, but not all contentious, opinionated, challenging and dangerous writing is brave. What sets the two apart are integrity, thoughtfulness, courage, and as Susan Carland mentions, vulnerability.' (Juliet Rogers, Introduction)