Expressions of interest are now open for Australian writers to create works inspired by nature at the nation’s oldest scientific institution.
Botanic Gardens of Sydney has launched its inaugural Writers in Residence Program.
Two Australian writers will be chosen to create new works inspired by the Gardens, with behind-the-scenes access granted to the institution’s unique sites, staff, collections, and world-leading science facilities during a three-month residency in 2026.
Successful applicants will create one or more written works inspired by the Gardens, with creative and inventive use of the resources and collections on offer being welcomed.
Each writer will receive a $15,000 stipend to support the residency, with dedicated workspaces available at Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan, or Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah.
The successful applicants will have opportunities to collaborate with staff and experts from the fields of science, horticulture, marketing, education and more, plus access to the living collections, herbarium, seed bank, green spaces and Daniel Solander Library – Australia’s oldest botanical research library with a world-class collection including botanical illustrations, historic photographs, archaeological artefacts and more.
Writers will also have the chance to access expert advice from The Guardian and Hardie Grant Publishing.
Finished works will be shared via Botanic Gardens of Sydney’s online channels and through The Gardens magazine.
The selection panel will include experts from Botanic Gardens of Sydney, Hardie Grant Publishing, and the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.
Expressions of interest for the 2026 intake are now open and will close at 5pm on Tuesday 27 January 2026.
Full details are available on the Gardens’ website at: https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/about-us/our-people/work-us/writers-residence-expressions-interest
The program is supported by The Guardian and the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.
Chief Executive of Botanic Gardens of Sydney Simon Duffy AM said:
"Botanic Gardens of Sydney has been a source of inspiration for writers and artists for over 200 years.
“This new program celebrates that legacy by inviting contemporary voices to create new works that put plants at the heart of a thriving world, inspired by our unique landscapes and collections.
“I’d like to thank the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for their support and enthusiasm for this project."
About us:
About Botanic Gardens of Sydney
Botanic Gardens of Sydney encompasses three world-leading botanic gardens, Australia’s premier botanical research institute, and Sydney’s leading outdoor activation precinct.
The organisation is founded on a passion for botanical science and horticulture and enriched by its relationship with Traditional Custodians.
Botanic Gardens of Sydney aims to inspire, educate, and activate our community, conserve biodiversity, restore ecosystems, and ensure that plants remain at the heart of a thriving, sustainable world.
Contact details:
Media contact: Ella Williams
P +61 2 9231 8066
W botanicgardens.org.au/media-and-communications
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