Let’s cut the fluff: there are ways to make money from your writing — but they don’t fall in your lap while you wait for a bestseller to “just happen.” If you want to be paid, you need to treat writing like a business. That means knowing the markets, valuing your work, and sending out more pitches than you think you can stomach.
Let’s cut the fluff: there are ways to make money from your writing — but they don’t fall in your lap while you wait for a bestseller to “just happen.” If you want to be paid, you need to treat writing like a business. That means knowing the markets, valuing your work, and sending out more pitches than you think you can stomach.
Decide What You’re Selling
You’re not “just a writer.” You’re a service provider. Even if you’re writing a poetry collection or a novel, the product is your words — and the way you deliver them matters.
Here are the main categories:
- Freelance Writing – Articles, features, blog posts, copywriting, ghostwriting, grant writing.
- Author Work – Books (traditionally or self-published), audiobooks, eBooks.
- Creative Commissions – Poems, short stories, bespoke pieces for events or brands.
- Teaching/Workshops – In-person or online writing classes.
- Content Creation – Paid blogging, newsletters, and social media storytelling.
💡 Australian Source: Check Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA) Freelance Rates for current recommended minimum rates.
Most Common Paying Markets
In Australia
- Magazines & Newspapers – The Saturday Paper, Australian Geographic, The Monthly, WellBeing are some examples, but don’t forget to look locally. Some local magazine and newspaper editors still have budgets for paid contributions.
- Online Platforms – SBS Voices, ABC Everyday, The Guardian Australia.
- Government & Nonprofits – Grants, public awareness campaigns, community storytelling projects.
- Business Writing – Annual reports, newsletters, web copy.
International/Online (open to Aussies)
- Content Platforms – Contently, Skyword, ClearVoice (competitive, but global rates).
- Online Publications – Medium Partner Program, Substack paid newsletters, niche blogs.
- Freelance Boards – ProBlogger Jobs (Aussie-run), Freelance Writing Jobs, Upwork (filter for high-budget clients).
💡 Tip: Poets and short story writers can look at Australian Poetry and Griffith Review for paid submission calls.
Build Your Portfolio (Even If You’re New)
If you’re starting from zero, you need samples that prove you can write.
- Write guest blogs for reputable sites in your niche.
- Submit to local newspapers or community magazines.
- Publish on Medium or Substack — paid or free — and link to your best work in pitches.
💡 Avoid writing for “exposure” unless it’s a calculated step to build credibility in a market you’re targeting. Exposure doesn’t pay the rent unless it’s a stepping stone to a paid gig.
Pitch Like You Mean It
Editors don’t pay for ideas they never see. Send targeted pitches:
- Research the publication — read at least 5–10 recent articles.
- Match your idea to their audience.
- Keep it Tight – one short, sharp paragraph outlining your concept, why it matters, and why you’re the one to write it.
💡 Check Writers Victoria’s Pitching Guidelines for solid examples.
Set Your Rates and Stick to Them
Australian freelancers should know the MEAA minimums — and aim higher when possible. For book authors, Australian Society of Authors has a Payment Rates Guide covering author talks, royalties, and rights.
Even poets can invoice — performances, workshops, commissioned work all have going rates.
Think Beyond the Book
Too many authors rely solely on book sales. Revenue streams can also include:
- Author talks and workshops (local libraries often pay).
- Selling short stories or poetry to anthologies.
- Writing grant-funded projects.
- Paid newsletters or Patreon support.
💡 In Queensland, check Arts Queensland’s Funding Programs for opportunities.
Know the Admin Side
If you earn more than a hobby income, you need:
- An ABN (Australian Business Number) — free to register via the ATO.
- To understand GST thresholds.
- Simple bookkeeping — even a spreadsheet will do at first.
💡 The ATO’s Business Essentials for Creatives is worth a read before tax time sneaks up on you.
Bottom Line
Writers get paid when they:
- Know their market.
- Pitch relentlessly.
- Diversify their income streams.
- Value their work and refuse to work for crumbs.
You can wait for the big break… or you can start getting paid this month. Your call.
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