Les Carlyon Literary Prize: Call for Entry

"He always said good writing was hard, and it was always about the words. If it flowed effortlessly and sparkled with clever imagery, you could be sure the author worked hard to produce it. Never bore, and inspire some response in the reader." —Denise Carlyon reflecting on her husband, Les Carlyon AC

About the Prize

The biennial Les Carlyon Literary Prize is dedicated to the memory of Mr. Les Carlyon AC, an esteemed historian, author, and journalist, who passed away on 4 March 2019. Known for his critically acclaimed works on Australian history, including Gallipoli (2001) and The Great War (2006), Carlyon served on the Council of the Australian War Memorial from 2006 until his passing. In 2014, he was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia for his contributions to literature and the understanding of Australia’s war history.

Prize Details

The Les Carlyon Literary Prize is awarded for single-authored works of fiction and non-fiction relating to Australian military history, Australian social military history, or Australian war history.

Award: $10,000 for the winning work

Entry Requirements

Works must be published between 2022 and 2024
Entrants must submit five copies of the work for judging (books will not be returned)
Current employees of the Australian War Memorial are ineligible

Entries close on 31 August 2024

Judging Criteria

Literary merit (written style and skill)
Contribution to the understanding of Australia’s experience of war, military and/or social aspects
Authenticity and credibility in telling the story