As Sally Rippin passes the halfway mark in her Laureate term, the ACLF Board is embarking on the selection process for your Australian Children’s Laureate for 2026 and 2027.
As valued supporters, we invite you to tell us who you would like to see follow in the footsteps of our current and previous Laureates – Boori Monty Pryor and Alison Lester (2012–13), Jackie French (2014–15), Leigh Hobbs (2016–17), Morris Gleitzman (2018–19), Ursula Dubosarsky (2020–21), Gabrielle Wang (2022-23) and Sally Rippin (2024–25).
You can also let us know what focus area you would like us to consider. For example, Sally Rippin is using her two years to champion the belief that 'All kids can be readers!' if given the right support, with a special focus on access to stories. What are you passionate about? Let us know.
Please remember - the Laureate program is for all Australians and we thank you for suggesting the amazing creators who you believe could be our next national ambassador, actively promoting the transformational power of reading, creativity and story in the lives of young Australians.
The Australian Children’s Laureate selection criteria is detailed below.
Australian Children's Laureate Selection Criteria
An author and/or illustrator who:
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Is published by an Australian publisher.
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Is an Australian citizen and resident in Australia for the term of office.
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Has made a significant contribution to Australian children’s and/or youth literature, with recognised stature, a positive public profile and the respect of their peers.
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Has proven ability to relate to and communicate well with children.
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Is an articulate and media-savvy communicator.
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Is willing to promote the transformational power, value and importance of reading and the importance of children’s and youth literature in Australia’s literary culture, and the work of other Australian children’s writers and illustrators.
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Is willing to visit each state/territory at least once during the intended two (2) year term.
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Agrees to operate in consultation with the ACLF Board in their program/project development.
The ACLF seeks to represent all of the Australian children's book community and promote a culture of opportunity. We encourage suggestions of people from a range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds and people with disabilities.
Please note: The ACLF Board reserves the right to make the final selection taking into account the suggestions put forward by our partners and supporters based on the selection criteria.
