Australia’s premier short story awards for crime fiction written by Australian women.
Note: contact details have changed. All enquiries should be sent to the Scarlet Stilettos administrator Ruth Wykes.
QUICK INFO:
Make sure to read ALL THE INFO below before entering! And if you now need some quick links here they are:
- This is the email address for entries
- Got questions? Here’s the FAQ page
- Need to check the categories? Go here.
BEFORE YOU ENTER
Before you enter, it’s critical you read the critical information for entrants. This details everything you need to know and entering is a confirmation that you agree to the terms and conditions outlined.
ENTRY FEES
The entry fees are:
- $20 for a member of Sisters in Crime
- $25 for a non-member of Sisters in Crime
HOW TO ENTER
Here are the steps for how to enter:
- Read the critical information for entrants! This outlines everything you need to know. This is also where you can find the prompt photo for this year’s Cate Kennedy Award for Best Story Inspired by a Forensic Clue.
- Go to Eventbrite to pay the entry fee. You will be issued with an order number. Keep a note of that as you will need it for the entry form.
- Go here for the registration form. There are different ways you can use this:
- Online editing: this is an editable PDF which means you can complete it online and download it to your computer and save it to email with you story (see below). (You’ll need the free Acrobat Reader) NOTE: some combinations of browser and software can make this difficult. If this is you, please…
- Print it off and use a pen, then scan the document so you can email it (see below).
- Read the Categories explanation. You can apply for as many as relevant for no extra fee. Make sure to tick the categories you are entering. All entrants are automatically entered into General.
- Create a cover sheet as page one of your manuscript. The cover sheet should have the name of the story, the categories you are entering (as ticked on the entry form), and the order number from Eventbrite.
- Check your manuscript to make sure you do not include your name or any information that could identify you.
- Check your manuscript to ensure it complies with the formatting requirements. These are outlined in the points above and in Conditions of Entry on the critical information page.
- Convert the manuscript with cover page into one PDF.
- If you are entering Young Writer don’t forget to scan a document that provides proof of age. Your student ID is ideal. Attach it separately. It should not be included with the PDF of your manuscript.
- Email your manuscript and entry form (and student ID if relevant) to this dedicated email address. It must arrive no later than 11.30 pm on 31 August 2025.
All entries must be received by 11.30 pm on 31 August 2025.