Macquarie University launches author survey

Macquarie University has launched a national survey investigating the practices of Australian authors in the contemporary national and international book industry.

The survey, which follows on from a similar study conducted in 2015, examines authors’ experiences with publishing, copyright infringement, promotional strategies and changes in income. The 2015 survey found that the average income derived from practising as an author was $12,900.

‘This research will provide critical insights for the Australia Council and the Australian book industry,’ said Australia Council head of literature Wenona Byrne. ‘By tracking changes from the baselines established in the 2015 study, it will help us understand the changing situation and future outlook for Australian authors and illustrators, including the impacts of the pandemic.’

Led by Macquarie University academic Paul Crosby and supported by the Australia Council for the Arts and the Copyright Agency, the 2022 survey is updated to find out how far the fortunes and practices of Australian authors have changed, including the impact of the Covid pandemic.

‘We know that writers tend to be among those with the lowest incomes in the creative economy,’ said Byrne. ‘Robust data and evidence are crucial for effective planning and strategies, and for advocacy regarding the needs of Australian authors.’

The survey is open to all published authors and will remain open until 27 May 2022. To access the survey, click here.

The findings from the study will be released in late 2022.

Category: Local news