The much-anticipated 2024 Australian Book Industry Awards were presented on Thursday 9 May at a star-studded event in Melbourne. Featuring some of the biggest names in the Australian book industry, this year’s shortlists and winners were a showcase of established luminaries and emerging talents.

The 22 winners were selected by an experienced cohort of highly-respected publishers, booksellers, agents and media and industry representatives, with winning titles presenting a significant contribution to their respective genre or category.

The prestigious and highly coveted 2024 ABIA Book of the Year Award was awarded to The Voice to Parliament Handbook by Thomas Mayo and Kerry O’Brien.

Crafted during a pivotal moment in Australia’s political and cultural landscape, The Voice to Parliament Handbook is an extraordinary achievement, developed under intense time constraints imposed by the Referendum, and bolstered by strong support from retailers.

Indigenous leader Thomas Mayo and acclaimed journalist Kerry O’Brien co-authored the Handbook, produced by Hardie Grant Publishing, which also won the ABIA Social Impact and General Non-Fiction Book of the Year awards. Despite the Voice referendum’s shortfall in support for change, this accessible guide stands as a poignant reminder of a significant moment in Australian history.

This year’s Australian Book Industry Awards underscore the crucial role publishers, authors and booksellers play in combating misinformation, delivering fact-checked, trusted, and high-quality content. Another notable winner is Welcome to Sex by Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes, with illustrations by Jenny Latham. The industry rallied behind this guide when faced with attempts by a minority to censor its content and ban it from shelves – a victory that validates the demand for trustworthy content.

Several established and award-winning authors came to the fore this year:

• The Teacher’s Pet by Hedley Thomas won Audiobook of the Year for its production of the  global podcast phenomenon that would eventually bring down a killer.
• Biography Book of the Year was awarded to Miles Franklin Award-winning author Anna Funder for Wifedom: Mrs Orwell’s Invisible Life, that uncovers the story of George Orwell’s forgotten wife.
• Literary Fiction Book of the Year was awarded to internationally best-selling author Trent Dalton for Lola in the Mirror, which explores the darkest corners of Australian life.
• Maxine Beneba Clarke, one of Australia’s most innovative and celebrated poets, was awarded Book of the Year for Younger Children for her latest collection of poetry, It’s The Sound of the Thing.
• The award-winning team of Jane Godwin and Anna Walker were awarded Children’s Picture Book of the Year for A Life Song – a musically inspired story of growing up and finding your place in the world.

Driven by contemporary themes, 2024 saw a mix of emerging and new talent awarded:

• Welcome to Sex written by Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes, illustrated by Jenny Latham was awarded Book of the Year for Older Children for its ‘there’s no silly question’ guide to sexuality and pleasure.
• Amber Creswell’s Australians Abstract was awarded Illustrated Book of the Year building on her artistic review credentials with her survey of more than 40 Australian abstract artists.
• International Book of the Year was awarded to Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, a book that achieved viral success on TikTok’s reader community BookTok, propelling it to number one on The New York Times bestseller list.
• Small Publishers’ Children’s Book of the Year was awarded to Artichoke to Zucchini: an alphabet of delicious things from around the world by Alice Oehr, which introduces young readers to fruit, vegetables, and dishes from around the globe.
• The Matt Richell Award for New Writer of the Year was awarded to Green Dot by Madeleine Gray for her relatable tale of a messy love story that captures the allure of chasing something that promises nothing.

Indigenous authors and publishing were once again featured in this year’s awards:

• Edenglassie by Melissa Lucashenko was awarded Small Publisher’s Adult Book of the Year for her epic novel set in Brisbane, telling two extraordinary First Nations stories, set five generations apart.
• The Voice to Parliament Handbook by Thomas Mayo and Kerry O’Brien was also awarded both General Non-Fiction Book of the Year and Social Impact Book of the Year.
• Magabala Books, Australia’s leading Indigenous publisher based in the remote Kimberley town of Broome, Western Australia was awarded Small Publisher of the Year for its work in nurturing the talent and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices.

Recipients of the industry business awards were:

• Penguin Random House Australia for Publisher of the Year;
• Fullers Bookshop in Hobart for Bookshop of the Year;
• Magabala Books, for Small Publisher of the Year.
• Catherine Milne was awarded Commissioning Editor/Publisher of the Year
• The Affirm Press campaign for The Bookbinder of Jericho won Marketing Strategy of the Year

Michael Gordon-Smith, CEO, Australian Publishers Association, said:

“In a year when the rights and freedoms of many of our fellow humans around the world have been misrepresented and vilified, the need for accessible, clear and trusted information has never been more pronounced. The winners of this year’s awards stand as a poignant reminder of how books and reading significantly enrich our society.”

Browse the full list of winners below, with comments from judges:

Audiobook of the Year

The Teacher’s Pet by Hedley Thomas; narrated by Hedley Thomas and Full Cast (Macmillan Australia Audio, Pan Macmillan Australia)

“Judges chose The Teacher’s Pet as Audiobook of the Year for its knock-out production and quality voice acting, with Hedley Thomas narrating alongside a cast of almost 70 performers.

Pan Macmillan displayed a thoughtful and clear strategy towards differentiating this extensive audiobook from the podcast.”

 

Biography Book of the Year

Wifedom: Mrs Orwell’s Invisible Life by Anna Funder (Hamish Hamilton, Penguin Random House Australia)

“Anna Funder’s Wifedom showcases a distinct authorial vision, executed flawlessly. Judges were impressed by Penguin Random House Australia’s strategic support, which effectively brought this historical literary story to a wide audience.”

 

Book of the Year for Older Children (ages 13+)

Welcome to Sex by Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes, illustrated by Jenny Latham (HGCP Non-Fiction, Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing)

“The exceptional editorial work of the author-publisher team was highly praised by judges, positioning Welcome to Sex as an important and enduring educational resource for young Australians.

Hardie Grant’s impressive response to market demands for the book mobilised community support, amidst a global campaign about book banning.”

 

Book of the Year for Younger Children (ages 7-12)

It’s the Sound of the Thing by Maxine Beneba Clarke (HGCP Older Readers, Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing)

“It’s the Sound of the Thing was approached with great consideration, producing an attractive package for a diverse range of readers.

Judges commended the design elements that reflect the content, allowing this beautiful work to shine and attract new readers to poetry.”

 

Children’s Picture Book of the Year

A Life Song by Jane Godwin, illustrated by Anna Walker (Puffin, Penguin Random House Australia)

“In the eyes of the judges, A Life Song emerged as a standout picture book for the year, possessing all the essential elements – captivating cover, stunning illustrations, evocative language and rich content.

Jane Godwin and Anna Walker once again prove themselves as a dynamic creative duo, showcasing their talents throughout this stunning title.”

 

General Fiction Book of the Year

The Bookbinder of Jericho by Pip Williams (Affirm Press)

“Judges praised the The Bookbinder of Jericho as an impressive feat of publishing, particularly for a follow up fiction title.

The author-publisher partnership injected energy and creativity to the campaign, resulting in a significant sales result across all channels, with the book well-received by readers.”

General Non-fiction Book of the Year

The Voice to Parliament Handbook by Thomas Mayo and Kerry O’Brien (Hardie Grant Explore, Hardie Grant Publishing)

“Hardie Grant have displayed exceptional publishing with The Voice to Parliament Handbook.

The authors’ authentic, considered and authoritative work has been supported by a flawless campaign and strong production.

Considered alongside the tight timeline and market demand for this material, it is the standout winner of the General Non-fiction Book of the Year category.”

 

Illustrated Book of the Year

Australian Abstract by Amber Creswell Bell (Thames & Hudson Australia, Thames & Hudson)

“In a crowded and competitive market, Australian Abstract is a remarkable piece of illustrated publishing.

The exceptional work of the author, coupled with the talents of Thames & Hudson’s design and editorial team, mean this work is destined to grace the shelves for many years to come.”

International Book of the Year

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (Piatkus, Hachette Australia)

“The judges were impressed not only by the whole-of-company approach taken by Hachette Australia, but by the energy and creativity of the publisher in harnessing the emerging romantasy trend on BookTok.”

 

Literary Fiction Book of the Year

Lola in the Mirror by Trent Dalton (4th Estate, HarperCollins Publishers)

“From structural editing and writing through to bespoke retailer promotions, the judges recognised that Lola in the Mirror was a meticulously planned publishing ‘moment’.

Both Trent Dalton and HarperCollins infused this campaign with energy that invigorated the market, while bringing to the fore an important social discussion about the prevalence of domestic violence in Australia.”

 

Small Publishers’ Adult Book of the Year

Edenglassie by Melissa Lucashenko (UQP, University of Queensland Press)

“The judges noted that Edenglassie excelled across all aspects of publishing: from content and cover design to sales, marketing and publicity.

UQP demonstrated exceptional skill in garnering broad interest for this literary title, leveraging Melissa Lucashenko’s significant influence on Australian literary culture.“

 

Small Publishers’ Children’s Book of the Year

Artichoke to Zucchini: an alphabet of delicious things from around the world by Alice Oehr (Scribble, Scribe Publications)

“With eye-catching editorial throughout, Artichoke to Zucchini offers an exciting, fun and educational experience for young and old readers alike.

Judges agreed that the high-quality production provided by Scribble resulted in a strong offering for retailers, including bespoke window decals and original prints, with a strategic and well-crafted giveaway promotion.

The combined package resulted in impressive sales, rivalling Alice Oehr’s stunning winning title from last year.”

 

Social Impact Book of the Year

The Voice to Parliament Handbook by Thomas Mayo and Kerry O’Brien (Hardie Grant Explore, Hardie Grant Publishing)

“The Voice to Parliament Handbook is not just an expert piece of commercial publishing – it has also played an essential role in our social and cultural life. 

In combating the wealth of misinformation surrounding the national Referendum, the Voice to Parliament Handbook provided Australians with a trusted and timely source of information.”

Matt Richell Award for New Writer of the Year

Green Dot by Madeleine Gray (Allen & Unwin)

“Despite stiff competition, the judges agreed that Madeline Gray entered the industry as the standout debut novelist for 2023.

Both in Australia and internationally, Gray has captivated audiences with Green Dot. Allen & Unwin demonstrated expert authorial support, from acquisition right through to the touring program.”

 

Bookshop of the Year

Fullers Bookshop, Hobart

“Fullers Bookshop is a wonderful independent bookstore with a first class events program.

With thoughtful engagement tailored to the local community, and accessible for many different groups of people, their creative initiatives and investment in literacy have had a significant impact on their local community, and beyond.”

Commissioning Editor/Publisher of the Year

Catherine Milne – Publisher, HarperCollins Publishers

“The judges were undoubtedly impressed by Catherine Milne’s success in 2023. Her track record consistently showcases her respectful collaboration with authors, and her adeptness in shaping their careers and bodies of work for the better.”

 

Marketing Strategy of the Year

The Bookbinder of Jericho campaign by Affirm Press

“Affirm Press created a strong suite of engaging campaign initiatives to propel The Bookbinder of Jericho to success. 

With good use of a traditional tour and linear media, and a campaign that cannily drew on book-binding video content, their innovative strategy drove impressive grass roots sales.”

 

Small Publisher of the Year

Magabala Books

“The contributions that Magabala Books has made to the industry at large can be felt at every level of publishing. This is an incredible feat for any publisher – and it’s all the more impressive for a company that operates outside the main metropolitan publishing centres.

Magabala has produced an exceptionally diverse list of titles in the last year, while maintaining their best-practice support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander emerging creators, and early-career staff.”

 

Publisher of the Year

Penguin Random House Australia

“With an impressive emphasis on environmental sustainability, backed by a genuine commitment to measuring improvement, Penguin Random House Australia have demonstrated a determination to make a difference in the Australian publishing industry, and the broader community. 

This focus, coupled with the strength of their publishing across each division, make them a worthy winner in a competitive race for 2024 Publisher of the Year.”

Book of the Year

The Voice to Parliament Handbook by Thomas Mayo and Kerry O’Brien (Hardie Grant Explore, Hardie Grant Publishing)

“The Voice to Parliament Handbook is an outstanding and timely work. 

The clear winner across two ABIA categories, the writing and publishing team have done an outstanding job of presenting an important, authoritative work to the Australian public, under tight time constraints.

The Voice to Parliament Handbook was the stand out publishing effort of the year, and a worthy winner of the 2024 Book of the Year Award.”

Thank you to all of our ABIA partners

Our grateful thanks to all our ABIA 2024 partners and sponsors. Their contributions and dedicated support of the industry are a valued part of this event.

The ABIAs celebrate the professionals in the book business – the dedicated individuals and teams who bring stories to life, and books to the right readers.

Congratulations to the new Hall of Fame recipients, and the companies shortlisted for the five Business Awards, all recognising outstanding contributions to the industry.

Browse the Business Awards shortlists below, while the shortlists for the Book Awards can be viewed here.

 

Hall of Fame: Lloyd O’Neil Award – Fiona Stager 

Fiona Stager’s dedication to fostering a vibrant literary community in Brisbane is truly remarkable. Through bookstores Avid Reader and Where the Wild Things Are, she has not only provided a platform for local and emerging writers – she has cultivated a space where readers can explore a diverse range of literature, from classics to contemporary works.

Fiona has made immense contributions to the Australian literary scene, and her efforts continue to shape and enrich the cultural landscape of the country.

Fiona says of being recognised with the award:

‘I was so surprised and overwhelmed when I was told I was this year’s recipient of the Lloyd O’Neil Award I cried! The previous recipients are people who have inspired me with their writing, or their publishing careers or bookselling acumen. I love this industry, and to be awarded the Lloyd O’Neil Award means the world to me.’

Hall of Fame: Pixie O’Harris Award – Jane Godwin 

Jane Godwin’s impact on Australian children’s literature is immense and multifaceted. As the award-winning author of over forty books, her creativity and prolific output demonstrate her dedication to the craft, and she is a tireless advocate for Australian children’s literature.

Jane’s continued support for fellow authors and illustrators is recognised widely in the industry, in both her work as an author and her many years as a publisher of children’s books. Her genuine warmth and generosity has left a lasting impression on her colleagues in the book industry. Jane’s efforts have not only enriched the landscape of Australian children’s literature, but fostered a love of reading and storytelling in young people that will endure for generations to come.

Jane said of receiving this award:

‘I am surprised, honoured and grateful to receive the 2024 Pixie O’Harris Award. My life in the world of children’s books springs from a passion I have held since childhood and feels inseparable from my personality. I am so touched to be recognised by the industry – thank you.’

ABIA 2024 Business Awards Shortlists

Warm wishes to all those shortlisted for Bookshop of the Year, Marketing Strategy of the Year, Commissioning Editor/Publisher of the Year and Publisher and Small Publisher of the Year Awards.

Bookshop of the Year

• Kinokuniya Sydney
• Matilda Bookshop
• Big W Warringah Mall
• Potts Point Bookshop
• Avenue Bookstore Elsternwick
• Fullers Bookshop

Small Publisher of the Year

• University of Queensland Press (UQP)
• Pantera Press
• Magabala Books
• Monash University Publishing
• Fremantle Press
• Rockpool Publishing

Publisher of the Year

• Simon & Schuster Australia
• Affirm Press
• Hachette Australia
• HarperCollins Publishers
• Hardie Grant Publishing
• Penguin Random House Australia

Commissioning Editor/Publisher of the Year

• Kirsten Abbott (Thames & Hudson Australia)
• Anthea Bariamis (Simon & Schuster Australia)
• Vanessa Radnidge (Hachette Australia)
• Rebecca Saunders (Hachette Australia)
• Catherine Milne (HarperCollins Publishers)
• Madonna Duffy (UQP)

Marketing Strategy of the Year

• Lola in the Mirror by Trent Dalton (HarperCollins Publishers)
• Fourth Wing and Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros (Hachette Australia)
• The Bookbinder of Jericho by Pip Williams (Affirm Press)
• Wifedom by Anna Funder (Penguin Random House Australia)
• The Last Devil to Die by Richard Osman (Penguin Random House Australia)
• Everyone On This Train Is A Suspect by Benjamin Stevenson (Penguin Random House Australia)

Book Awards shortlists and ABIA 2024 Ceremony

The Book Awards shortlists were announced last month, and can be viewed here.

Join your industry colleagues to celebrate the Hall of Fame winners and all those shortlisted for Awards – and of course, to be there on the night as the winners are announced!

The Awards Ceremony takes place on Thursday 9 May at Zinc Fed Square in Melbourne.

Learn more and book tickets here.

We are thrilled to announce the Book Awards shortlists for ABIA 2024!

The Australian Book Industry Awards (ABIA) showcase the best talent in the business, with exceptional collaborations between publishers, authors, editors, illustrators, marketers and designers in bringing quality books to Australian and international markets.

Browse the Book Awards shortlists below, while the shortlists for the Business Awards can be viewed here.

Winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony on 9 May 2024, and will be eligible for the coveted Book of the Year Award, proudly presented by BorrowBox.

Audiobook of the Year

• The Teacher’s Pet, Hedley Thomas; narrated by Hedley Thomas and Full Cast ( Macmillan Australia Audio, Pan Macmillan Australia)
• The Last Daughter, Brenda Matthews; narrated by Ella Ferris (Bolinda audio, Bolinda / ABC audio)
• The Voice to Parliament Handbook, Thomas Mayo, Kerry O’Brien; narrated by Thomas Mayo, Kerry O’Brien (Bolinda audio)
• Welcome to Sex, Melissa Kang, Yumi Stynes; narrated by Melissa Kang, Yumi Stynes (Bolinda audio)
• Wifedom, Anna Funder; narrated by Arianwen Parkes-Lockwood, Jane Slavin (Bolinda audio)
• Edenglassie, Melissa Lucashenko; narrated by Ursula Yovich (Audible Studios, Audible Australia); produced by Radhiah Chowdhury / Sound Kitchen Studio

Biography Book of the Year

• Showing Up, Nedd Brockmann (Simon & Schuster Australia)
• Heartbake, Charlotte Ree (Allen & Unwin)
• Love & Pain, Ben Gillies, Chris Joannou (Hachette Australia)
• Wifedom: Mrs Orwell’s Invisible Life, Anna Funder (Hamish Hamilton, Penguin Random House Australia)
• Unfinished Woman, Robyn Davidson (Bloomsbury Publishing)

The initial shortlist announcement contained a sixth title, Did I Ever Tell You This?: A Memoir by Sam Neill (Text Publishing). It was ineligible under the ABIA Biography of the Year Award criteria, and withdrawn.

Book of the Year for Older Children (ages 13+)

• This Book Thinks Ya Deadly, Corey Tutt, illustrated by Molly Hunt (Hardie Grant Explore, Hardie Grant Publishing)
• The Quiet and the Loud, Helena Fox (Pan, Pan Macmillan Australia)
• Welcome to Sex, Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes, illustrated by Jenny Latham (HGCP Non-Fiction, Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing)
• Stuck Up and Stupid, Angourie Rice, Kate Rice (Walker Books Australia)
• Eleanor Jones is Not a Murderer, Amy Doak (Penguin, Penguin Random House Australia)
• Isles of Gods, Amie Kaufman (Allen & Unwin)

Book of the Year for Younger Children (ages 7-12)

• It’s the Sound of the Thing, Maxine Beneba Clarke (HGCP Older Readers, Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing)
• Songlines, Margo Neale, Lynne Kelly, Blak Douglas (Thames & Hudson)
• Kimmi, Favel Parrett (Hachette Australia, Lothian Children’s Books)
• The 169-Storey Treehouse, Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton (Pan, Pan Macmillan Australia)
• Custodians: Wylah the Koorie Warrior 2, Jordan Gould and Richard Pritchard (Albert Street Books, Allen & Unwin)
• Ember and the Island of Lost Creatures, Jason Pamment (Allen & Unwin)

Children’s Picture Book of the Year (ages 0-6)

• What to Do When You’re Not Sure What to Do, Davina Bell, illustrated by Hilary Jean Tapper (Lothian Children’s Books, Hachette Australia)
• If I Was a Horse, Sophie Blackall (Lothian Children’s Books, Hachette Australia)
• Nightsong, Sally Soweol Han (UQP, University of Queensland Press)
• Australia: Country of Colour, Jess Racklyeft (Affirm Press)
• Australian Animals: From Beach to Bush, Brentos (Affirm Press)
• A Life Song, Jane Godwin, illustrated by Anna Walker (Puffin, Penguin Random House Australia)

General Fiction Book of the Year

• Homecoming, Kate Morton (Allen & Unwin)
• Mr Einstein’s Secretary, Matthew Reilly (Macmillan, Pan Macmillan Australia)
• Green Dot, Madeleine Gray (Allen & Unwin)
• The Bookbinder of Jericho, Pip Williams (Affirm Press)
• Dark Mode, Ashley Kalagian-Blunt (Ultimo Press, Hardie Grant Publishing)
• Everyone On This Train Is A Suspect, Benjamin Stevenson (Michael Joseph, Penguin Random House Australia)

General Non-fiction Book of the Year

• The Voice to Parliament Handbook, Thomas Mayo and Kerry O’Brien (Hardie Grant Explore, Hardie Grant Publishing)
• I Don’t, Clementine Ford (Allen & Unwin)
• It’s The Menopause: What you need to know in your 40s, 50s and beyond, Kaz Cooke (Viking, Penguin Random House Australia)
• Question 7, Richard Flanagan (Knopf, Penguin Random House Australia)
• Crossing the Line, Nick McKenzie (Hachette Australia)
• Bright Shining, Julia Baird (4th Estate, HarperCollins Publishers)

Illustrated Book of the Year

• The New Modernist House, Patricia Callan (Thames & Hudson Australia, Thames & Hudson)
• Iwantja, Iwantja Artists (Thames & Hudson Australia)
• Australian Abstract, Amber Creswell Bell (Thames & Hudson Australia, Thames & Hudson)
• Fish Butchery, Josh Niland (Hardie Grant Publishing, Hardie Grant Books)
• The Year I Met My Brain: A travel companion for adults who have just found out they have ADHD, Matilda Boseley, illustrated by Evie Hilliar (Penguin Life, Penguin Random House Australia)
• Getting to Know the Birds in Your Neighbourhood: A Field Guide, Darryl Jones (NewSouth, NewSouth Publishing)

International Book of the Year

• Iron Flame, Rebecca Yarros (Piatkus, Hachette Australia)
• Fourth Wing, Rebecca Yarros (Piatkus, Hachette Australia)
• Tom Lake, Ann Patchett (Bloomsbury Publishing)
• The Woman in Me, Britney Spears (Simon & Schuster Australia)
• Icebreaker, Hannah Grace (Simon & Schuster Australia)
• SPARE, Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex (Bantam UK, Penguin Random House Australia)

Literary Fiction Book of the Year

• The Hummingbird Effect, Kate Mildenhall (Scribner Australia, Simon & Schuster Australia)
• The In-Between, Christos Tsiolkas (Allen & Unwin)
• Stone Yard Devotional, Charlotte Wood (Allen & Unwin)
• Prima Facie, Suzie Miller (Picador Australia, Pan Macmillan Australia)
• Women & Children, Tony Birch (UQP, University of Queensland Press)
• Lola in the Mirror, Trent Dalton (4th Estate, HarperCollins Publishers)

Small Publishers’ Adult Book of the Year

• The Matilda Effect, Fiona Crawford (Melbourne University Press, Melbourne University Publishing)
• Edenglassie, Melissa Lucashenko (UQP, University of Queensland Press)
• Everyone and Everything, Nadine J. Cohen (Pantera Press)
• I’d Rather Not, Robert Skinner (Black Inc.)
• Killing for Country: A Family Story, David Marr (Black Inc.)

Small Publishers’ Children’s Book of the Year

• Gurawul the Whale: An ancient story for our time, Uncle Max Dulumunmun Harrison, illustrated by Laura La Rosa (Magabala Books)
• Meet Me at the Moon Tree, Shivaun Plozza (UQP, University of Queensland Press)
• Let’s Never Speak of This Again, Megan Williams (Text Publishing)
• Listen, Nicole Godwin and Duncan Smith, illustrated by Jandamarra Cadd (Wild Dog Books)
• Who’s Afraid of the Light?, Anna McGregor (Scribble, Scribe Publications)
• Artichoke to Zucchini: an alphabet of delicious things from around the world, Alice Oehr (Scribble, Scribe Publications)

Social Impact Book of the Year

• The Voice to Parliament Handbook, Thomas Mayo and Kerry O’Brien (Hardie Grant Explore, Hardie Grant Publishing)
• Welcome to Sex, Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes, illustrated by Jenny Latham (HGCP Non-Fiction, Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing)
• The Year I Met My Brain: A travel companion for adults who have just found out they have ADHD, Matilda Boseley, illustrated by Evie Hilliar (Penguin Life, Penguin Random House Australia)
• Wifedom: Mrs Orwell’s Invisible Life, Anna Funder (Hamish Hamilton, Penguin Random House Australia)
• The Palestine Laboratory: how Israel exports the technology of occupation around the world, Antony Loewenstein (Scribe Publications)
• The Queen is Dead, Stan Grant (4th Estate, HarperCollins Publishers)

The Matt Richell Award for New Writer of the Year

• Green Dot, Madeleine Gray (Allen & Unwin)
• At the Foot of the Cherry Tree, Alli Parker (HarperCollins Publishers)
• Saltwater Boy, Bradley Christmas (Walker Books Australia)
• Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder, Kerryn Mayne (Bantam, Penguin Random House Australia)
• A Brilliant Life, Rachelle Unreich (Hachette Australia)
• Everyone and Everything, Nadine J Cohen (Pantera Press)

The ABIAs celebrate the professionals in the book business – the dedicated individuals and teams who bring stories to life, and books to the right readers.

Congratulations to the new Hall of Fame recipients, and the companies shortlisted for the six Business Awards, all recognising outstanding contributions to the industry.

Hall of Fame: Lloyd O’Neil Award – Tim Winton

Tim Winton has published 29 books over his 40 year literary career. He has been twice shortlisted for the Booker Prize and has won numerous awards, including Miles Franklin Literary Awards for Shallows, Cloudstreet, Dirt Music, and Breath. The influence of his writing has seeped into our collective consciousness, reflected in conversations from the arts, education and community activism to the environment and marine conservation. Most recently, he was a writer, narrator, and executive producer of the nature documentary Ningaloo Nyingguluc.

On receipt of the award, Tim said, ‘It’s a lovely thing to be honoured by the writers, publishers and booksellers who keep our precious book culture alive, and I’m really touched to be given this award in my 40th year in the caper.’

Hall of Fame: Pixie O’Harris Award – Lisa Berryman

Lisa Berryman is one of Australia’s most renowned publishers of children books from picture books to young adult titles. With a career spanning over 40 years, she is an enthusiastic and motivating champion for children’s literature and has been instrumental in bringing the voices of numerous successful Australian children’s book authors into the public eye as well as caretaking beloved Australian classics such as The Magic Pudding by Norman Lindsay, The Muddleheaded Wombat by Ruth Park and The Complete Adventures of Blinky Bill by Dorothy Wall.

Her faith in the transformative power of words, stories, and books is at the core of her achievement. The Pixie O’Harris Award is presented to a distinguished individual who has shown tireless support for children’s literature – Lisa embodies that dedication.

On receipt of the award, Lisa said, ‘What an extraordinary honour it is to receive this prestigious award in recognition of the many years I have spent pursuing my passion for children’s books.’

ABIA 2023 Business Awards Shortlists

Warm wishes to all those shortlisted for Bookshop and Book Retailer of the Year, and Publisher and Small Publisher of the Year, and the new Marketing Strategy and Commissioning Editor/Publisher of the Year Awards.

Bookshop of the Year

• Where The Wild Things Are Bookshop
• Matilda Bookshop
• Readings Emporium
• Boffins Books
• Bookgrove, Stacey Moore(Bookgrove)

On bookshops, the judging panel said: ‘All the entries were impressive, and the shortlisted stores all demonstrated how independent bookstores are an important part of the community engaging with notable initiatives and outreach activities to encourage reading and literacy within our communities. Passion, energy and hard work was synonymous will all on the shortlist.’

Book Retailer of the Year

• QBD
• Target Australia
• Dymocks
• Big W
• Harry Hartog Bookseller

On book retailers, the judging panel said: ‘The judging panel was impressed by the depth of range and support for books with investment in stores, events, displays and charitable activities that all go towards making reading accessible for many Australians. Their contribution to the entire book industry built on staff care and building on dedicated customer relationships cannot be understated.’

Small Publisher of the Year

• Magabala Books
• University of Queensland Press(UQP)
• Scribe Publications
• Black Inc.
• Pantera Press

On Small Publisher of the Year, the judges said: ‘Every small publisher offers something unique to the cultural landscape of Australia. The judging panel was impressed by the commitment to diversity and representation and the willingness to publish in an exciting range of formats and genres.’

Publisher of the Year

• Simon & Schuster Australia
• Allen & Unwin
• Penguin Random House Australia
• HarperCollins Publishers
• Pan Macmillan Australia

On Publisher of the Year, the judges said: ‘Despite the global challenges of distribution and supply chains, our Australian publishers have all sought to find solutions for supply chain coverage and to get books out to readers. They worked to improve staff support and diversity and inclusion within the industry, with notable progress.’

 

New ABIA Business Awards for 2023

Commissioning Editor/Publisher of the Year

The inaugural Commissioning Editor Award recognises the importance of an editor or publisher who provides excellence in the support of their authors, and the acquisition and commission of new titles that not only meets the needs of the publishing house but enriches the Australian publishing landscape.

• Rebecca Saunders (Hachette Australia)
• Jane Palfreyman (Allen & Unwin)
• Rebecca Young (Scholastic Australia)
• Vanessa Radnidge (Hachette Australia)
• Mandy Brett (Text Publishing)

On the Commissioning Editor Award, the judging panel said: ‘The judging panel was impressed by year’s exceptional shortlist contenders all of whom have championed their authors and delivered strong commercial publishing programs. There is evidence of literary success and a commitment to publishing a good representation of Australian voices.’

Marketing Strategy

The inaugural Marketing Strategy Award recognises the important work of marketing professionals in showcasing their talent and individual product lines and lists with imaginative, innovative and effective campaigns that have captured the imagination of Australian readers.

• Stolen Focus by Johann Hari (Bloomsbury Publishing)
• Runt by Craig Silvey, illustrated by Sara Acton (Allen and Unwin)
• Barefoot Kids by Scott Pape (HarperCollins Publishers)
• The Seven Skins of Esther Wilding by Holly Ringland (HarperCollins Publishers)
• Lisa by Lisa Curry & Ellen Whinnett (HarperCollins Publishers)

On the Marketing Strategy Award, the judging panel said: ‘Across the board the judging panel was impressed by the well-executed, multi-channel marketing programs presented. They all sort to leverage the author’s reputation to engage with their audience with innovative solutions as well as connect them with a wider audience-base.’

We are thrilled to announce the Book Awards shortlists for the 2023 ABIAs!

The ABIAs showcase the best talent in the business, with exceptional collaborations between publishers, authors, editors, illustrators, marketers and designers in bringing quality books to Australian and international markets.

The winners will be announced at the red-carpet ABIA Ceremony, to be held on Thursday 25 May at Doltone House (Darling Island) in Sydney.

Don’t miss out on this special night – get your tickets now!

Audiobook of the Year

• Ten Steps to Nanette, Hannah Gadsby; narrated by Hannah Gadsby (Wavesound)
• Life: What Nat to Do: A hot take on advice you never asked for, Nat’s What I Reckon; narrated by Nat’s What I Reckon (Penguin Random House Australia, Random House AU Audio Adult)
• The Ninth Life of a Diamond Miner, Grace Tame; narrated by Grace Tame (Pan Macmillan Australia, Macmillan Australia Audio)
• Lisa, Lisa Curry with Ellen Whinnett; narrated by Lisa Curry (HarperCollins Publishers, HarperAudio)
• The Whitewash, Siang Lu; narrated by Tim Potter, Nick Ravenswood, Siang Lu, Tom Hart, Berlin Lu, Eva Seymour, James Huang, Jamie Hart, Jing-Xuan Chan, Keith Brockett, Marty Rhone, Yen Nguyen, Ichigon and Daniel Qin (Wavesound)

Biography Book of the Year

• My Dream Time, Ash Barty (HarperCollins Publishers)
• Ten Steps to Nanette, Hannah Gadsby (Allen & Unwin)
• The Boy from Boomerang Crescent, Eddie Betts (Simon & Schuster Australia)
• Heartstrong, Ellidy Pullin (Hachette Australia)
• The Ninth Life of a Diamond Miner, Grace Tame (Pan Macmillan Australia, Macmillan Australia)

Book of the Year for Older Children (ages 13+)

• If You Could See the Sun, Ann Liang (HarperCollins Publishers, HQ Young Adult)
• The Jammer, Nova Weetman (UQP)
• Blood Traitor, Lynette Noni (Penguin Random House Australia)
• Unnecessary Drama, Nina Kenwood (Text Publishing)
• Sugar, Carly Nugent (Text Publishing)

Book of the Year for Younger Children (ages 7-12)

• The Bookseller’s Apprentice, Amelia Mellor (Affirm Press)
• Guardians: Wylah the Koorie Warrior 1, Jordan Gould and Richard Pritchard (Allen & Unwin; Albert Street Books)
• A Girl Called Corpse: An Elston-Fright Tale, Reece Carter, illustrated by Simon Howe (Allen & Unwin)
• Runt, Craig Silvey, illustrated by Sara Acton (Allen & Unwin)
• Waiting for the Storks, Katrina Nannestad (HarperCollins Publishers, ABC Books)

Children’s Picture Book of the Year (ages 0-6)

• What to Say When You Don’t Know What to Say, Davina Bell and Hilary Jean Tapper (Hachette Australia, Lothian Children’s Books)
• Floof, Heidi McKinnon (Allen & Unwin, Albert Street Books)
• Ceremony: Welcome to Our Country, Adam Goodes and Ellie Laing, illustrated by David Hardy (Allen & Unwin)
• Be Careful, Xiao Xin!, Alice Pung and Sher Rill Ng (HarperCollins Publishers, Working Title Press)
• Miimi Marraal, Mother Earth, Melissa Greenwood (HarperCollins Publishers, ABC Books)

General Fiction Book of the Year

• Dirt Town, Hayley Scrivenor (Pan Macmillan Australia, Macmillan Australia)
• The Tilt, Chris Hammer (Allen & Unwin)
• Exiles, Jane Harper (Pan Macmillan Australia, Macmillan Australia)
• Day’s End, Garry Disher (Text Publishing)
• Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone, Benjamin Stevenson (Penguin Random House, Michael Joseph)

General Non-fiction Book of the Year

• Reasons Not to Worry, Brigid Delaney (Allen & Unwin)
• The Space Between the Stars, Indira Naidoo (Murdoch Books)
• Bedtime Story, Chloe Hooper (Simon & Schuster Australia, Scribner Australia)
• Bulldozed, Niki Savva (Scribe Publications, Scribe)
• Investing with She’s on the Money, Victoria Devine (Penguin Random House, Penguin Life)

Illustrated Book of the Year

• First Nations Food Companion, Damien Coulthard and Rebecca Sullivan (Murdoch Books)
• Lune, Kate Reid (Hardie Grant Publishing, Hardie Grant Books)
• Cressida Campbell, National Gallery of Australia (National Gallery of Australia)
• Yiayia Next Door, Daniel and Luke Mancuso (Pan Macmillan Australia, Plum)
• RecipeTin Eats: Dinner, Nagi Maehashi (Pan Macmillan Australia, Macmillan Australia)

International Book of the Year

• The Marriage Portrait, Maggie O’Farrell (Hachette Australia, Headline)
• Young Mungo, Douglas Stuart (Pan Macmillan, Australia Picador)
• The Bullet That Missed, Richard Osman (Penguin Random House, Viking UK)
• Lessons in Chemistry, Bonnie Garmus (Penguin Random House, Doubleday UK)
• Stolen Focus, Johann Hari (Bloomsbury Publishing)

Literary Fiction Book of the Year

• All That’s Left Unsaid, Tracey Lien (HarperCollins Publishers, HQ Fiction)
• The Sun Walks Down, Fiona McFarlane (Allen & Unwin)
• Horse, Geraldine Brooks (Hachette Australia)
• Seeing Other People, Diana Reid (Hardie Grant Publishing, Ultimo Press)
• Limberlost, Robbie Arnott (Text Publishing)

Small Publishers’ Adult Book of the Year

• Humanity’s Moment, Joëlle Gergis (Black Inc.)
• Cold Enough for Snow, Jessica Au (Giramondo Publishing)
• The Dreaming Path, Paul Callaghan (Pantera Press)
• Tell Me Again, Amy Thunig (UQP)
• Warlpiri Encyclopaedic Dictionary, Mary Laughren, Kenneth Hale, Jeannie Nungarrayi Egan, Marlurrku Paddy Patrick Jangala, Robert Hoogenraad, David Nash and Jane Simpson (Aboriginal Studies Press)

Small Publishers’ Children’s Book of the Year

• My Shadow is Purple, Scott Stuart (Larrikin House)
• Koori Princess, Anita Heiss (Magabala Books)
• A Tiny Light, Alison Lester (UQP)
• Off to the Market, Alice Oehr (Scribe Publications, Scribble)
• The Brink, Holden Sheppard (Text Publishing)

Social Impact Book of the Year

• Come Together, Isaiah Firebrace, illustrated by Jaelyn Biumaiwai (Hardie Grant Publishing, Hardie Grant Explore)
• How Many More Women, Jennifer Robinson and Keina Yoshida (Allen & Unwin)
• The Boy from Boomerang Crescent, Eddie Betts (Simon and Schuster Australia)
• Not Now, Not Ever, Julia Gillard (Penguin Random House, Australia Vintage)
• Freedom, Only Freedom, Behrouz Boochani, anthology editors Moones Mansoubi and Omid Tofighian (Bloomsbury Publishing, Bloomsbury Academic (AUS))

The Matt Richell Award for New Writer of the Year

• Tell Me Again, Amy Thunig (UQP)
• WAKE, Shelley Burr (Hachette Australia)
• Dirt Town, Hayley Scrivenor (Pan Macmillan Australia, Macmillan Australia)
• The Ninth Life of a Diamond Miner, Grace Tame (Pan Macmillan Australia, Macmillan Australia)
• Root & Branch: Essays on inheritance, Eda Gunaydin (NewSouth Publishing, NewSouth)
• All That’s Left Unsaid, Tracey Lien (HarperCollins Publishers, HQ Fiction)