Varuna, the National Writers’ House, is a writers’ residency located west of Sydney in the Blue Mountains. Each year, over 200 writers participate in residencies and professional development programs at Varuna.
The Arts NT Residential Fellowships is presented in partnership with the Northern Territory Government through Arts NT.
Six residential fellowships are available to writers living in the Northern Territory, to be taken between September 2025 – December 2026.
Participants will be selected from across the Territory, and at least one fellowship place will be reserved for a First Nations writer or illustrator.
Residential fellowships include:
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A two-week residency at Varuna, with full board and accommodation including a prepared evening meal.
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Uninterrupted time to write in your own private studio, and the companionship of your fellow writers.
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$1,500 towards expenses, including travel, manuscript consultations, or accommodation in Sydney on the way through to the Blue Mountains. Each writer is able to use this expenses budget to fit their individual needs.
Artistic merit is the most important criterion for assessors, who, depending on genre, are looking for sound structure, compelling themes, a distinctive and engaging voice, vivid imagery, strongly written characters, social and cultural relevance, and/or the work’s capacity to connect with readers. The assessors also consider the potential of your manuscript, based on the experience of the writer and their work plan.
TESTIMONIALS FROM PREVIOUS RECIPIENTS
“It is the supportive environment, which is created through a deep sense of respect for the practice of writing, reflected by the provision of writers’ needs – being fed, kept warm, not pressured to do anything but tend to the work. No interruptions or demands. And having other writers there, and access to that wonderful library of Australian authors, is part of this support. To feel oneself in the company of writers (both in real life and in literature), immersed in the art form, gives validity and weight to the pursuit of writing.”
— Arts NT Residential Fellowship recipient, 2023
“I’d encourage Aboriginal language speakers to experience Varuna. It’s a place to write, think and be inspired. The staff are friendly and make sure your stay is 100% perfect, calm and happy. The Arts NT program gave me the opportunity to express my poems. Thank you. Apmere Mwarre, Ayeye Intelityeke. A good place to write your story.”
— Marie Elena Ellis, Arts NT Residential Fellowship recipient, 2024
KEY INFO
Applications close: 5pm (ACST), 14 July 2025
Residency dates: Must be taken between September 2025 – December 2026
Places: Six places will be awarded
Who should apply: Emerging or established writers living in the Northern Territory
Fees: There is no application fee for this program, nor are there any program costs; successful applicants receive a $1,500 stipend for travel costs
FAQs: Please read the FAQs before you apply.
For more information click here
