Frequently Asked Questions

How will I know if my entry has been received?

You will receive an automated response, and a copy of the submission will be sent to your nominated email address. If you haven't received it within a few hours, check your spam inbox or email mybrotherjack@gleneira.vic.gov.au and we can easily double check for you.

How will I know if I have been shortlisted?

Shortlisted finalists will be notified via email on Friday 21 August 2026. If you do not hear from us, it means you weren't shortlisted this year, but we encourage you to try again in 2027. 

What if I miss the submission cut-off date?

Entries close at 5pm AEST on Monday 13 July 2026. Entries must be received by the submission deadline. Late entries will not be accepted so we encourage you to submit early so you don't miss out.

Am I eligible to enter if I am already a published writer?

To be eligible, entries must not have been previously published. Publication includes, but is not limited to, publication in print and online (for example, in a journal/magazine/anthology or on a website). Publication on a personal blog/website does not constitute publication. 

If a story or poem has been written and assessed as part of a writing course, but has not been distributed further, that also does not constitute publication.

My entry was shortlisted/commended for another Awards. Can I still enter?

Yes! If your entry was shortlisted or commended elsewhere but was not published, then it can be entered. Please contact us if you are unsure about eligibility.

How do I determine my word count?

Count all words (except title and page numbers)

How strict is the word or line limit?

Entries will be ineligible if they are 10% or more over the specific word or line limit. There is no minimum word count for entries.

Should I put my name on my entry?

All entries are sent to the judging panel with the names removed. Please avoid putting your name anywhere on your entry.

How do I format my entry?

Entries are preferred on an A4 double-spaced PDF or Word document in minimum 12-font (Arial or Times New Roman are preferred). We prefer at least a 1-inch (approx 2.5cm) margin around all sides. Please include a title on the document.. 

Non-confirming entries will not be disqualified but taking some care with your formatting does make the judges' job a lot easier.

Can I include illustration or pictures?

We do love pictures but please avoid including any in your submission.

Can I edit or swap over an entry that I have already submitted?

No. Once an entry has been submitted, we do not accept edits, replacements or exchanges. If you wish to re-enter an edited piece, then it will be considered a new entry. 

Can I enter more than one category? Or submit more than one entry per category?

The answer to both question is yes. But you are only eligible for one prize per category.

Can I submit an entry written with somebody else?

Yes. You can submit an entry written in collaboration with someone else. But your writing partner must also be eligible to submit an entry in that category and any prize monies must be split evenly between you.

Can I get feedback on my entry?

Due to the large number of submissions, judges are unable to provide individual feedback on entries. We respectfully ask that entrants do not contact judges directly at any time.

Can I send my entry by post?

Entries must be submitted online. If you need help submitting your entry, please email mybrotherjack@gleneira.vic.gov.au or phone Elle Credlin, My Brother Jack Coordinator on 9524 3626 and we'll support you. 

How are the Awards judged?

The Awards are judged by a panel of industry professionals. The entries are judged anonymously based on established criteria. The judges' decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into.