So you want to write a book. Maybe you have a story that’s been living in your head for years, or perhaps you’re wondering whether your passion for writing could become something more. Whatever brought you here, you’re not alone – and the good news is that there has never been a better time to explore a writing career.
The bad news? Most people underestimate just how much work goes into becoming a published author. Writing a book is a significant personal and professional milestone, and the path from first idea to finished manuscript is rarely straightforward. But with the right knowledge, a clear process and a healthy dose of perseverance, it is absolutely achievable.
This guide breaks down how to become an author in Australia – from developing your creative writing skills to understanding the publishing landscape and deciding whether formal study might support your goals.
What does an author do?
An author originates and creates literary works across a range of formats, including novels, biographies, essay collections, instructional books, short stories, poetry and creative non-fiction. These works may be published as standalone books, in journals, as part of anthologies or in single-author collections. At the core of the job is developing a compelling story or idea and shaping it into a cohesive manuscript intended for publication.
But the role extends well beyond the writing itself. Modern authors also:
- Research their subject matter thoroughly
- Revise and edit their manuscripts across multiple drafts
- Work with editors, publishers and literary agents
- Build and maintain a reader community
- Market and promote their published work
Building a platform is crucial for attracting agents and publishers, as it demonstrates your influence and ability to reach readers. For most authors, the writing is just the beginning.
The difference between an author and a writer
These terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a meaningful professional distinction. A writer is a broad term for anyone who produces text – journalists, copywriters, technical writers and bloggers all fall into this category. A writer may produce content for a company or publication without owning the original concept.
An author, specifically, creates original published works (often known as intellectual property, or IP for short). To become a writer who is also an author, you need to be the originator of the book's content and structure. All authors are writers, but not all writers are authors.
Completing a first novel is often the defining milestone. It is the moment that marks the shift from aspiring writer to author – proof that you can create and finish an original, full-length work.
How to become a published author
If you are an aspiring author and wondering where to start, you’re in the right place. Writing and publishing a book requires a systematic approach that combines craft development, discipline and an understanding of the industry. Below, we will cover a breakdown of the key steps, but here are a few things worth keeping in mind before you begin:
- Revision is a critical part of this journey, involving multiple rounds of self-editing and feedback from beta readers – trusted readers who review your manuscript before publication. This process will strengthen your work and help you become a better writer over time.
- Perseverance is essential – rejection is a standard part of the publishing process and should be expected.
- Understanding the publishing landscape, including current trends and key players, is vital when planning your path to publication.
- Building discipline by writing a certain number of words regularly will help you develop your skills and maintain momentum.
Step 1: Develop your writing craft
The foundation of becoming an author is continuous skill development. This takes time – often years – and it begins with two deceptively simple habits: writing and reading.
Successful authors often emphasise the importance of writing regularly, with many recommending a daily writing practice to improve skills and maintain momentum. Writing every day can significantly improve your skills and make the process easier and more enjoyable.
Many successful authors recommend writing in the morning when the mind is fresh, as it can lead to higher productivity and creativity.
Reading extensively is equally important. Reading widely in and outside your genre helps you understand market conventions, pacing and diverse styles. The more you read, the more you internalise what makes writing work – and what does not.
Beyond solo practice, actively seek constructive feedback and advice. Participating in critique groups or writing workshops provides vital peer feedback for identifying blind spots in your writing. Writing communities, both online and in person, can be invaluable resources for anyone serious about improving their craft. Getting honest feedback on your own writing early is one of the most important things you can do.
It’s also important to make writing fun. Enjoying the creative process helps maintain motivation and leads to better results. If you’re struggling with a piece of writing, try switching your attention to a different creative project, or just start writing something else. Your attention can benefit from a distraction.
Sometimes, a story might not be working because you’re writing it from the wrong character’s point of view, or it would work better in present tense rather than past (or vice versa). Switching up your approach can give you a fresh perspective on the story you’re trying to tell. Play with structure, narrator, tense, pacing, style and narrative voice to see what might feel more natural for a particular piece of writing.
But don’t forget that sometimes, the friction of the creative process can be conducive to better work. A story that puts you through the wringer might be the best thing you end up producing.
Step 2: Write and refine a manuscript
Every book starts with a strong idea. Once you have a concept you believe in, the next step is to develop it into a full draft – and that requires time management and discipline above all else.
Establishing a writing schedule and committing to a certain number of words each day can help writers stay disciplined and productive. It does not have to be thousands of words. Many authors work in focused sessions of thirty to sixty minutes. The important thing is consistency.
Once you have a first draft, the real work begins. Revision involves refining the work through multiple rounds of self-editing and feedback from beta readers. Authors must edit for structural integrity, clarity and grammatical accuracy. Many complete multiple drafts and hire professional freelance editors to ensure the manuscript meets industry standards before submission.
One practical tip: make the first page compelling. Whether it is a literary agent or a general reader picking up your book, capturing attention immediately can determine your manuscript's success or rejection.
Discipline is the most important skill for an author – it is essential to consistently sit down and do the work required to write a book. Talent matters, but showing up matters more.
Step 3: Prepare for publication
With a polished manuscript in hand, you face a significant decision: traditional publishing or self-publishing? The process of getting a book published involves several steps regardless of which path you choose, but the routes look quite different.
Deciding between traditional publishing, which requires a literary agent, or self-publishing, which involves managing the editing and distribution yourself, is a necessary step in the publishing process. Understanding both options will help you choose the path that best fits your goals.
If you're seeking traditional publication, you'll write query letters and compile submission packages to send to literary agents or publishing houses. If you choose to self-publish, you'll hire cover designers, format your book for digital and print distribution, and develop an independent marketing strategy.
At this stage, building your author platform also becomes critical. Create an author website, start a blog and engage with readers on social media. Publishing short stories or other short pieces can help boost your name recognition and contribute to building your platform as a writer, even before your first published book is in the hands of readers.
Balancing writing with a day job
Here is something that doesn’t get said enough: most authors start their careers with day jobs, as very few can support themselves solely through writing at the beginning. Most authors write part-time for years before becoming self-sustaining. This is not a failure – it is the reality for many writers, including many published authors you admire.
Choosing a day job that complements your writing goals can make a significant difference. Roles in education, editing or the creative arts provide experience and skills that translate well to writing fiction or nonfiction. Others prefer jobs with flexible hours or less mental demand, allowing more energy for their own writing projects.
Having a day job can also offer structure and discipline, helping many writers maintain a routine and stay productive. The key is to set clear boundaries and prioritise your writing time – schedule dedicated sessions before or after work and protect them.
Writing and time management
Effective time management is essential for writers aiming to produce high-quality work while juggling other commitments. Start by setting realistic writing goals and breaking larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks.
Useful habits include:
- Setting deadlines for each stage of your writing process
- Using calendars, to-do lists or writing schedules to keep projects on track
- Developing a consistent routine, such as writing at the same time each day
- Learning to say no to non-essential commitments during intensive writing periods
Protecting your writing time is not selfish – it’s necessary. By managing your time effectively, writing can remain a central focus, even alongside other responsibilities.
Do you need a degree to become an author?
There are no mandatory qualifications that an author requires to publish a book. Anyone with a completed manuscript can seek publication. However, just as with any other career, investing in formal education for creative writing can significantly accelerate your development and provide a competitive advantage.
Many aspiring authors choose to undertake postgraduate study to receive structured guidance and industry-relevant feedback. Online courses such as Edith Cowan University's (ECU) Master of Creative Writing provide a practical environment for advanced craft development. This 100% online course covers fiction and non-fiction development, writing for specific audiences and the business of editing and publishing. It culminates in a capstone writing project, allowing students to develop a significant piece of work under the mentorship of published professionals.
For writers seeking structure, professional feedback and a deeper understanding of the publishing landscape, a formal degree is a highly valuable pathway – not a mandatory requirement, but a meaningful one.
Skills you need to become an author
Successfully writing and publishing a book requires a diverse skill set that extends well beyond basic writing ability. The skills required include:
- Discipline and time management: Authors must work independently, setting their own schedules to complete long-term projects.
- Advanced editing capabilities: The ability to critically review and revise your own work is essential for producing a polished manuscript.
- Research skills: Both fiction and non-fiction authors must conduct thorough research to ensure accuracy, authenticity and depth.
- Audience awareness: Understanding your target readership and tailoring your tone, style and content accordingly.
- Resilience and perseverance: The publishing industry is highly competitive, and authors frequently face rejection during the submission process.
- Reading extensively: Exposure to high-quality writing helps writers internalise effective writing techniques.
Renowned authors like Stephen King exemplify this dedication, maintaining strict writing routines and consistently producing high-quality work across both novels and short stories. His approach to the craft – read a lot, write a lot – remains some of the most practical advice in the field.
The most important thing for aspiring authors is discipline and perseverance. Success in writing, as in any field, requires you to work hard and remain committed to your goals.
Getting feedback and support
Building strong writing skills often requires community. Joining a writing group – whether online or in person – can provide valuable opportunities to share your work, receive critique and learn from fellow writers.
However, community isn't only found in informal writing groups. It's also a cornerstone of structured programs like ECU Online's Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, and Master of Creative Writing. In these courses, students from across Australia embark on a shared learning journey. This fosters a strong sense of community, connecting you with peers and mentors who provide valuable feedback, encouragement, and a network of fellow writers dedicated to honing their craft.
As an aspiring author, you need to be open to constructive criticism and feedback. It's a crucial part of the writing process and one of the fastest ways to become a better writer. Remember that every writer, no matter how experienced, benefits from an outside perspective. Learning to give thoughtful, constructive feedback to your peers is just as valuable, as it sharpens your critical reading skills, exposes you to different writing styles and helps you identify techniques you can apply to your own work.
Publishing pathways in Australia
When considering how to become an author, it is essential to understand the current publishing landscape, including industry trends, key players and the various pathways available. Australian authors generally choose between two primary models.
Traditional publishing
In this model, you pitch your manuscript to a publishing house, often through a literary agent. If accepted, the publisher assumes the financial risk of editing, designing, printing and distributing the book. Being traditionally published means your work is released through a mainstream publishing house, which typically brings professional editorial support, quality assurance and wider physical distribution.
As the author, you'll typically receive an advance against future royalties and earn a percentage of each book sold. Getting your book published in this way is a significant milestone, but the selection process is highly competitive, and the timeline can be lengthy.
It's also worth remembering that securing a publishing deal isn't limited to the traditional agent-to-publisher pathway. Many publishers accept direct submissions during designated submission periods, host manuscript pitch sessions at writers' festivals and industry events, or participate in pitching initiatives that connect aspiring authors with editors. Literary awards for unpublished manuscripts - such as the Dorothy Hewett Award, the Australian Fiction Prize, the Penguin Literary Prize and the Hungerford Award - can also provide a pathway to publication, with winners and, in some cases, shortlisted authors offered publishing opportunities.
Self-publishing
Self-publishing allows the author to retain complete creative and financial control over their work. The author is responsible for funding the editing, and covering design and marketing processes. Using platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing or IngramSpark, authors can distribute their work globally in digital and print-on-demand formats.
While this pathway requires more upfront investment and entrepreneurial effort, it offers higher royalty rates and immediate access to the market.
Building your author platform
Establishing a strong author platform is vital for connecting with readers and promoting your writing. Building a platform means establishing your influence and audience as a writer, which is crucial for attracting agents and publishers.
To build your platform, you should create an author website, start a blog and engage with readers on social media. Publishing short pieces – short stories, essays, opinion posts – can help boost your name recognition and contribute to building your platform as a writer.
Develop a unique author brand that reflects your writing style and genre, and ensure consistent branding across all platforms. Use analytics tools to monitor your website traffic and social media performance, adjusting your strategy as needed to maximise your reach.
Marketing and promoting your work
Marketing and promotion are critical components of a successful writing career – and often the part that surprises new authors most. Develop a plan that includes social media marketing, email campaigns and content marketing to reach your target readers.
Connect with book bloggers, reviewers and influencers in your genre to request reviews and features. Running promotions or giveaways can generate excitement and help new readers discover your work. As a published author, you'll also spend time promoting your book in person and online, whether that's visiting bookshops that stock your title, attending author events and signings, or sharing photos and updates on social media to engage with readers and celebrate milestones.
Remember, marketing is an ongoing process. By actively promoting your writing and engaging with your community, you can build a sustainable writing career and ensure your work reaches the readers it deserves.
Author career opportunities and related roles
Developing advanced creative writing skills opens doors to various professional roles within the literary and communications sectors outside of writing books. Individuals who train as authors often pursue the following career opportunities:
- Published author
- Literary agent
- Senior content writer
- Magazine editor
- Editorial consultant
- Content manager
- Creative lead
- Brand content manager
Writing skills are valued around the world, and the knowledge you develop in becoming an author can open up global career paths. Choosing writing as a profession can have a transformative impact on your life, offering both personal growth and lifestyle flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to be a creative writer?
Formal qualifications are not strictly required to pursue a career as a full-time writer. A strong idea is the foundation of any creative writing project, and reading widely is essential for improving your craft. However, a postgraduate qualification can further enhance your skills, professional credibility and career opportunities. A program like ECU Online's Master of Creative Writing provides advanced knowledge in storytelling, narrative structure and publishing to support aspiring authors in their creative writing career.
Is it hard to become a published author?
Becoming a published author is a challenging journey that often takes years of hard work and perseverance. The process is filled with frequent rejection, and publishing a book typically takes around six years of dedicated effort to achieve traditional publication. The traditional publishing industry is highly competitive, and getting a book published is a significant milestone that requires serious commitment – much like any other professional career.
However, the whole thing is more manageable with structure and support. A formal creative writing program, such as those available through ECU Online, provides the necessary guidance, professional feedback and structured development to help writers improve their skills and navigate the publication process successfully.
How do I know if postgraduate study is a good fit for me?
If you are serious about your writing career and want structured feedback, professional mentorship and a deep focus on your own writing, formal study can be a valuable next step. It is a good fit for writers who feel they have been working in isolation, who want to develop writing fiction or non-fiction at an advanced level, or who want a clearer understanding of the business side of publishing. It is not a requirement – but for many writers, it is the thing that turns a dream into a plan.
Next steps for aspiring authors with ECU Online
Understanding how to become an author involves recognising the dedication required to master the craft of writing and navigate the publishing industry. It is a long-term commitment that demands perseverance, resilience and a willingness to keep improving.
Aspiring authors must focus on continuous skill development, rigorous manuscript revision and a clear understanding of their chosen publishing pathway. For those seeking a structured approach, formal study provides significant benefits.
ECU's online Master of Creative Writing offers an accelerated, flexible learning environment designed to refine your writing skills and prepare your work for publication.
To explore how postgraduate study can support your writing career, speak to an ECU Online Student Enrolment Advisor today.
