The 2026 Kate Challis RAKA Award is now open for applications from Indigenous authors. Â
The RAKA, which means ‘five’ in the Pintupi language, is awarded to an Indigenous artist in one of five categories annually, including creative prose, poetry, script writing, drama and visual arts.
In 2026, the $25,000 award supports the best book of fiction published between 2021-2026 and written in English by an Indigenous author.
The RAKA, or Ruth Adeney Koori Award, was first awarded in 1991 to help advance recognition of Indigenous artistic achievement and creativity. It was one of the earliest prizes for Indigenous artists in Australia. The award was established by eminent art and cultural historian Professor Emeritus Bernard Smith. Smith believed in the restorative justice powers of the arts in all forms, which is why the Kate Challis RAKA Award celebrates Indigenous creative excellence. It is named to honour the memory of his late wife, Kate Challis, who was known in her youth as Ruth Adeney.
Past winners of the RAKA include author Alexis Wright (2016), visual artist Yhonnie Scarce (2018), filmmakers Steven McGregor and David Tranter (2019), playwright Dylan Van Den Berg (2022), filmmaker Ivan Sen (2024, 2014, 2004) and poet Jazz Money (2025). See the full list of past winners.
Applications close on 9 June 2026.
Visit the website for information on how to apply.
Image caption: Yhonnie Scarce, Thunder Raining Poison (2015)
For more information click here
