We are so delighted to find so many JdM creators and three books on the Australian Book Industry Awards 2026 shortlist! They are;

Book of the Year for Older Children (ages 13+)
— This Stays Between Us by Margot McGovern (Penguin)

Book of the Year for Younger Children (ages 7–12)
— Spirit of the Crocodile by Aaron Fa’Aoso & Michelle Scott Tucker, with Lyn White (A&U Children’s)

Small Publishers’ Children’s Book of the Year
— Little Bones by Sandy Bigna (UQP)

The Australian Book Industry Awards celebrate the achievements of authors and publishers in bringing Australian books to readers. The Awards are a way of saying hooray to the successes in making books and being in the book business. With 23 awards announced on the night, winners are reviewed and chosen by a judging panels of industry professionals.

The ABIA 2026 Award Ceremony will be held on Thursday 21 May 2026, at Linseed House – The Grounds of Alexandria in Warrane/Sydney. General ticket sales will be opening on Wednesday 22 April 2026 for the event.

Congratulations, everyone!