The What Matters? Writing Competition invites that moment.

Returning in 2026, the competition asks students in Years 5 to 12 to reflect on a single, open question: What matters?

From there, the possibilities open.

Students can respond in up to 600 words of prose or poetry, fiction or non-fiction. Some may write about their communities, others about family, identity, hope or change. All are given the space to express themselves in ways that feel authentic.

For teachers, the competition offers something equally valuable, an opportunity to support reflection, persuasive writing and critical thinking, while connecting learning to the real world.

Many classrooms already bring the What Matters? Writing Competition into their teaching plans.

To support this, a suite of free teacher resources are available, including lesson ideas, writing prompts and booklets, and clear curriculum links designed to integrate seamlessly into classroom practice: Learning Resources.

There are fantastic prizes on offer for students and schools. Awards across year groups celebrate originality and storytelling, including author visits, writing workshops, book packs, cash prizes, and a fully funded trip to Canberra, among others.

Entry is completely free and submitted online, making the competition accessible to all schools across Australia.

Sometimes, all it takes is the right question to help students find their voice.

How to Enter

Entries for the 2026 competition are open now and close on Friday, 15 May.

Students, parents, and teachers can visit the competition website to:

Prizes are awarded across four categories: Years 5/6, 7/8, 9/10, and 11/12.

A major cash prize of $1,500 is awarded to the overall winner, alongside exclusive money-can't-buy experiences for winners and finalists!

For more information, prizes and to enter, visit whitlam.org/whatmatters.

 

Thank you to our generous sponsors