The 2020 Prime Minister’s Literary Awards shortlists have been announced today by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP.
The Awards recognise the exceptional talent of Australian writers across six categories and help raise the profile of our established and emerging writers, inspiring audiences to choose new Australian books.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that now, more than ever, we see the profound contribution of books to our cultural, intellectual and recreational life.
“Australia’s literary sector entertains us and educates us. Our authors, illustrators, poets and historians are our storytellers, shaping our national consciousness and contributing to a record of our culture,” the Prime Minister said.
“Books have the power to educate and comfort us, and I know many Australians of all ages have drawn on books during COVID-19.”
Minister Fletcher said the 2020 shortlists highlight themes that are relevant to us all.
“From more than 550 eligible entries, our judges had the difficult task of selecting 30 books, which this year capture diverse voices that make up Australia’s literary community,” Minister Fletcher said.
“I welcome the large number of stories by Australian Indigenous writers and women that are a prominent feature of this year’s shortlist.
“I congratulate the shortlisted authors and thank the judging panels for their work.”
Winners of the 2020 Prime Minister’s Literary Awards will be announced in December 2020.
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