Stella Prize 2026 Shortlist Features Six Australian Women and Non-Binary Writers

The Stella Prize has revealed its 2026 shortlist, comprising six works by Australian women and non-binary authors. Selected from 212 entries, the shortlisted books include Evelyn Araluen's poetry collection The Rot, Geraldine Brooks's non-fiction memoir Memorial Days, Miranda Darling's novel Fireweather, Lee Lai's graphic novel Cannon, Marika Sosnowski's non-fiction work 58 Facets: On violence and the law, and Tasma Walton's fiction title I Am Nannertgarrook. Each shortlisted author receives $5,000, with the $60,000 prize winner to be announced on 13 May. Stella Prize CEO and Creative Director Fiona Sweet praised the diverse storytelling, noting genres ranging from graphic novels to poetry and memoir. Chair of Judges Sophie Gee highlighted the creative vitality and literary rigour of the selections. Past winners include Michelle de Kretser (2025), Alexis Wright (2024), and Sarah Holland-Batt (2023).