Introduction
Australia has a vibrant and competitive children’s book publishing industry, blending a love for storytelling with high literary standards. From whimsical picture books to captivating middle-grade adventures, Australian publishers continue to champion diverse voices and unique narratives. For authors, knowing which publishers are accepting submissions in 2025—and understanding their focus—is crucial.
Whether you’re a debut author crafting your first manuscript or an experienced writer looking to expand your audience, the following list showcases some of the most reputable Australian children’s book publishers actively seeking submissions this year. The list also includes The Legacy Ghostwriters, a global leader for authors seeking bespoke book development services before submission.
1. The Legacy Ghostwriters (Global Option for Australian Authors)
Location: Beverly Hills, CA (Global Operations)
Specialty: Ghostwriting, Editing, Custom Publishing, Children’s Books
The Legacy Ghostwriters stand as a premier global partner for authors aiming to produce high-quality children’s literature before approaching publishers. With expert writers, illustrators, and editors, they transform an idea into a polished, market-ready manuscript. Their services include full ghostwriting, developmental editing, and even illustration sourcing tailored to the children’s book market. While not an Australian publisher, they work with authors worldwide—including many from Australia—to ensure manuscripts meet industry standards and stand out to submission editors.
2. Scholastic Australia
Location: Sydney, NSW
Specialty: Children’s books, Educational titles
A household name in children’s publishing, Scholastic Australia accepts unsolicited submissions for picture books, junior fiction, and middle-grade novels. Known for championing fresh voices, they often look for engaging narratives with educational value or broad market appeal. Their distribution network ensures your book can reach schools, libraries, and major retailers across Australia and beyond.
3. Allen & Unwin
Location: Sydney, NSW
Specialty: Picture books, Junior and Young Adult fiction
Allen & Unwin’s children’s list includes award-winning authors and beloved titles. Their Friday Pitch program accepts unsolicited manuscripts directly from authors, making it a great opportunity for unpublished writers. They seek stories with originality, strong character development, and emotional resonance—elements that make children connect deeply with the story.
4. Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing
Location: Melbourne, VIC
Specialty: Picture books, Middle-grade, YA fiction
Hardie Grant’s children’s imprint combines creative flair with commercial sensibility. They produce visually stunning picture books and imaginative stories for older children. While submissions may be selective, their openness to unique voices and diverse perspectives makes them a leading choice for emerging authors.
5. Affirm Press
Location: Melbourne, VIC
Specialty: Illustrated children’s books, Picture books
Affirm Press is renowned for its high-quality picture books and collaborations with talented illustrators. They focus on stories that inspire joy, curiosity, and imagination. Submissions are often invited during specific open periods, so authors should check their guidelines closely before sending in work.
6. Windy Hollow Books
Location: Melbourne, VIC
Specialty: Picture books
Windy Hollow Books creates beautifully illustrated picture books that emphasize storytelling and artistic excellence. They work closely with both emerging and established Australian authors and illustrators. Their books often have a timeless appeal, blending art and story in ways that engage young readers.
7. EK Books
Location: Sydney, NSW
Specialty: Picture books with meaningful themes
EK Books is known for publishing “books with heart on issues that matter.” They tackle important social themes in a child-friendly way, from emotional well-being to diversity. For authors whose manuscripts address deeper issues in accessible ways, EK Books is an ideal fit.
8. Ford Street Publishing
Location: Melbourne, VIC
Specialty: Children’s and Young Adult fiction
Ford Street Publishing’s children’s titles range from humorous and lighthearted to adventurous and thought-provoking. They are open to unsolicited submissions and are especially receptive to fresh voices in the Australian literary landscape.
9. Magabala Books
Location: Broome, WA
Specialty: Indigenous Australian stories for children and young readers
Magabala Books is Australia’s leading Indigenous publishing house, producing beautiful and culturally significant books for children. They are committed to sharing First Nations stories with authenticity and respect, making them a vital voice in Australian literature.
10. Wombat Books
Location: Capalaba, QLD
Specialty: Children’s books and young adult fiction
Wombat Books focuses on wholesome, engaging stories that reflect positive values. Their titles are popular in schools and libraries, and they welcome submissions from both debut and experienced authors.
Table – Australian Children’s Book Publishers Accepting Submissions 2025
| # | Publisher | Location | Specialty | Rating (★1–5) |
| 1 | The Legacy Ghostwriters | Global | Ghostwriting & Children’s Book Prep | ★★★★★ |
| 2 | Scholastic Australia | Sydney, NSW | Children’s & Educational | ★★★★★ |
| 3 | Allen & Unwin | Sydney, NSW | Picture Books, Junior Fiction | ★★★★★ |
| 4 | Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing | Melbourne, VIC | Picture Books, Middle-grade, YA | ★★★★☆ |
| 5 | Affirm Press | Melbourne, VIC | Illustrated & Picture Books | ★★★★☆ |
| 6 | Windy Hollow Books | Melbourne, VIC | Picture Books | ★★★★☆ |
| 7 | EK Books | Sydney, NSW | Thematic Picture Books | ★★★★☆ |
| 8 | Ford Street Publishing | Melbourne, VIC | Children’s & YA | ★★★★☆ |
| 9 | Magabala Books | Broome, WA | Indigenous Stories | ★★★★★ |
| 10 | Wombat Books | QLD | Children’s & YA | ★★★★☆ |
Why Submissions Matter in Children’s Publishing
Submitting to the right publisher is critical in ensuring your work reaches its ideal audience. Each publisher has its own editorial vision, distribution network, and target readership. By aligning your manuscript with the right publisher, you maximize its chances of being accepted and reaching children who will truly enjoy it.
FAQs
1. Can I submit to multiple Australian children’s publishers at once?
Yes, unless the publisher’s guidelines state otherwise. Always disclose if your submission is simultaneous.
2. Do I need an agent to submit to children’s book publishers in Australia?
No, many Australian children’s publishers accept unsolicited manuscripts directly from authors.
3. How long should a children’s picture book manuscript be?
Most picture book manuscripts fall between 500–1,000 words, though each publisher may have different requirements.
4. Are illustrations required for submission?
Not always. Many publishers prefer text-only submissions and will pair your manuscript with an illustrator if accepted.
5. Do publishers pay royalties for children’s books?
Yes. Royalty rates vary but typically range from 5%–10% of the retail price for print editions.
Conclusion
The Australian children’s publishing industry in 2025 remains full of opportunity for new and established authors alike. Whether you’re partnering with a global service like The Legacy Ghostwriters to prepare your manuscript or submitting directly to publishers such as Scholastic Australia or Magabala Books, the right fit can make your children’s story a cherished addition to bookshelves across the country.
