Celebrating Small Press Month: 8 Small Aussie Presses to Check Out
After seeing (a very fun) post about it being Small Press Month shared by Tiny Spoon Lit Mag on Instagram, I thought it’d be the perfect opportunity to share some of my favourite small presses.
Well, more fool me because it turns out the Australian lit scene is pumped full of excellent small presses, and it has been quite impossible to nail down a handful to a faves list (I know, who knew, right? 🙃)
Whether you're an avid reader seeking something off the beaten path or an aspiring writer searching for publishing opportunities, these presses offer a treasure trove of literary gems waiting to be unearthed.
Subbed In
Vibe: Inclusive, Grassroots, Eclectic
Subbed In is like the cool, indie older friend of your sibling in the Aussie literary scene, hanging out on Gadigal and Darug land. It started back in 2015 when a bunch of working-class queer and First Nations folks in Sydney organised some backyard readings. Since then, they’ve been doing all sorts of incredible stuff, like workshops, performances, books and, most recently, a lit mag for working class writers called Industrial Estate. Subbed In is all about publishing fresh reads and ensuring everyone gets to hear voices that often get ignored by the big shots in literature.
“As our namesake suggests, Subbed In offers a substitute to the copy-and-paste homogeneity of major publishers’ output. You won’t find our books topping Neilsen BookScan, but you will find them outliving many mainstream titles in the hearts and minds of readers.”
Sweatshop
Vibe: Inclusive, Empowering, Innovative
Sweatshop, a literary movement rooted in the vibrant heart of Western Sydney, is all about giving power to diverse communities through the magic of words and critical thinking. From workshops and residencies to masterclasses led by acclaimed authors and artists, Sweatshop offers a space for emerging and established writers from Indigenous and non-English speaking backgrounds to thrive. They’re also putting out a range of vital publications and anthologies of powerful work - notably their Sweatshop Women series. They're flipping the script on who gets a voice in Australian literature and arts through publications, films, podcasts and more.
“Our movement aims to create new and complex forms of artistic representations which counteract negative stereotypes and centre 'own-voices' narratives.”
Night Parrot Press
Vibe: Flash, Eclectic, Offbeat
As a small press dedicated to the flash format - in all ways - I can’t not give a nod to the delightful Night Parrot Press! Based in Perth, Western Australia, Night Parrot Pres was born in 2019 as a haven for the rebels of literature, embracing all things offbeat and daring. Picture them as the quirky cousin who's always championing the underdogs and bringing unconventional stories to the forefront. From flash fiction to hybrid works, they're all about shaking up the status quo and giving emerging voices a chance to shine.
“Inspired by our namesake, the elusive Australian night parrot, we seek to uncover writing that exists on the periphery, in obscurity, and give it a platform for recognition with a broader audience. We are especially fond of flash fiction, prose poetry, creative non-fiction, and stories that leave a strong, colourful, and unforgettable impression.”
Vagabond Press
Vibe: Innovative, Global, Literary
Vagabond Press has been kicking it since '99 and is like the globe-trotting storyteller of the literary world. With a focus on Australian poets and beyond, they're all about bridging cultures and bringing fresh voices to the forefront. Their books have snagged some serious literary accolades and are making waves in classrooms worldwide. From Australia to the Asia-Pacific and the Americas, they're creating a multicultural stage for writers to shine.
“Vagabond Press aims to build a transnational context for our writers and to continue to support the production and promotion of innovative new writing and literature in translation.”
Giramondo Publishing
Vibe: Global, Boundary-pushing, Literary
Giramondo Publishing, an Aussie indie gem with roots dating back to '95, is like the literary champion of the underdog. They're all about pushing boundaries and putting out top-notch poetry, fiction, and non-fiction that might not get the spotlight elsewhere. Initially starting with the ever-popular literary treat that is HEAT, Giramondo branched out into published works from individuals in 2002. From award-winning titles to fostering global literary exchange, Giramondo bridges the gap between academia and readers. Plus, they're not just about homegrown talent – their Southern Latitudes imprint shines a light on voices from all corners of the globe. PLUS, they put out some of the most gorgeous book covers I’ve ever clapped eyes on.
“Giramondo was established to publish innovative and adventurous literary work that might not otherwise find publication because of its subtle commercial appeal; to stimulate exchange between Australian writers and readers and their counterparts overseas; and to build a common ground between the academy and the marketplace.”
Clan Destine Press
Vibe: Genre Lovers, Inventive, Fun
Clan Destine Press are relatively new on my radar, but I’m increasingly aware of just how much love there is for genre fiction across my Aussie writing networks, and I’m all for it! Like a treasure trove for genre lovers, Clan Destine Press offers everything you could want. From crime to fantasy, historical fiction to horror and then some. With stories that are as diverse and vibrant as Australia itself, spanning the spectrum from ancient realms to futuristic galaxies, they’re also not afraid to mix it up – expect the unexpected with a selection of riveting cross-genre tales.
“We publish inventive, clever and original works of page-turning genre fiction; riveting cross-genre stories; and books that are heroic, questy, feral, dark, funny, spine-tingly, fast-paced, serious, silly and sensible. Our authors are Australian, and Clan Destine Press novels are straight, gay, queer, ancient, contemporary, gothic, retro, post-apocalyptic, earthbound and/or galactic.”
UQP
Vibe: Literary, Bold, Inspiring
UQP, standing tall since 1948, is a diverse small press hailing out of The University of Queensland. From fiction to poetry, children's books to non-fiction, they bring together vibrant stories that reflect our communities' rich and diverse tapestry. Known for their commitment to showcasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, UQP connects readers with inclusive stories that resonate with the Australian experience. With a focus on artistic excellence and a passion for advocating the power of books, there’s something for everyone to discover and love at UQP.
“Stories are fundamental to being human. Words inspire creativity, imagination and help construct national, community and individual identities. History is understood, the present is shared, and our future is shaped by stories.”
Magabala Books
Vibe: Empowering, Culturally Rich, Innovative
Nested in the heart of Broome, Magabala Books is dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices. As an independent Indigenous Corporation, they focus on amplifying Indigenous, from the Kimberley to the farthest corners of Australia. With up to 18 new titles each year spanning a multitude of genres, including children's books, fiction, memoirs, and poetry, Magabala Books is dedicated to preserving and celebrating Indigenous culture and heritage. With every Magabala book, you're not just purchasing a story but investing in Indigenous creativity, culture, and economic empowerment.
“Magabala Books is an advocate and guardian, protecting the cultural and intellectual property rights of all our creators. We play a significant advisory role within the publishing industry, modelling best practice for the publishing of Indigenous stories. Magabala also delivers a range of innovative social and cultural initiatives.”
Elaine Chennatt is a writer, educator and psychology student currently residing in nipaluna. She has a special interest in bibliotherapy (how we use literature to make sense of our lives) and is endlessly curious about the creative philosophies of others. She lives with her husband and two bossy dachshunds on the not-so-sunny side of the river (IYKYK). Find her online at wordswithelaine.com.
