Insights into the Australian Publishing Industry in 2025…and Getting Ready for 2026
As 2025 draws to a close, I’ve been thinking a lot about how the Australian publishing industry continues to evolve — and what it means for creatives like us heading into 2026. Whether you’re a writer, illustrator, or both, the landscape of children’s publishing is full of new opportunities, quiet challenges, and exciting shifts in how stories are being shared, marketed, and celebrated.
The Year in Review: 2025 in Australian Publishing
This year has felt like one of rebalancing. After the digital surge of the past few years, we’ve seen a renewed appreciation for tactile storytelling — books that invite readers to slow down, connect, and experience stories beyond the screen. Picture books, in particular, have continued to thrive, especially those with strong emotional themes, environmental awareness, and humour that resonates with both kids and parents.
Many publishers have become more selective, focusing on fewer titles but giving them greater marketing and production support. Independent and boutique publishers are also thriving — they’ve been willing to take creative risks and explore diverse voices, new art styles, and stories that feel deeply Australian.
The rise of hybrid careers has been another defining trend: many of us are juggling traditional publishing projects with freelance design work, educational illustration, and digital content creation. It’s not just about making ends meet — it’s about expanding how we share our creative voices in a changing industry.
What i think Publishers Are really Looking For
If you’re hoping to break into the Australian kidlit scene (or keep building your presence), it’s worth paying attention to the kinds of stories that publishers are seeking right now.
Authenticity: True, personal storytelling continues to be valued. Editors are drawn to books that come from lived experience or heartfelt observation.
Cultural and environmental awareness: Stories that help kids understand their world — and their impact on it — remain strong.
Illustrations with heart: In picture books, style is important, but emotion is everything. Publishers want illustrators who can capture genuine connection, expression, and warmth.
Longevity: Books with series potential, classroom use, or cross-generational appeal are always a plus.
As illustrators, showing that we understand narrative, layout, and how to visually support the story is just as important as artistic skill. A strong portfolio (or digital presence) that demonstrates storytelling range is more valuable than ever.
How us Creatives Are Adapting
One of the biggest shifts I’ve noticed this year is the way illustrators and authors are becoming micro-brands. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts have made it possible to share our process, our passion, and our behind-the-scenes worlds with readers directly.
Rather than waiting for traditional marketing campaigns, many creators now build their own engaged audiences — people who not only buy books but also attend school visits, workshops, and community events. This direct connection to readers has made the industry feel more personal and collaborative than ever before.
Tools like Procreate, Canva, and Genially are empowering illustrators to expand into animation, interactive storytelling, and educational resources — a trend that will only grow in 2026 as technology becomes more integrated into the creative classroom.
Prepping for 2026
So what can we do to get ready for the year ahead?
Refresh your portfolio. Include recent work that shows storytelling, character development, and emotional range.
Stay curious. Read newly released Australian titles — they’re the best guide to where the market is heading.
Network (gently). Join kidlit communities, both online and in person. The SCBWI, local writing centres, and book festivals are full of creative connections waiting to be made.
Diversify your creative output. Consider branching into digital learning content, school resources, or online art education — areas that are expanding rapidly.
Keep your joy. The industry can be slow, but your passion is what sustains you. Protect it, nurture it, and remember why you began illustrating in the first place.
Australian publishing may be small compared to international markets, but it’s mighty — full of heart, humour, and a deep respect for stories that help children grow. As we look to 2026, I feel hopeful. More illustrators are being seen, more diverse voices are being celebrated, and more books are being created with love and longevity in mind.
For me, that’s what makes this career so special. Every book, every illustration, and every creative risk is a little piece of optimism — a belief that stories still matter, and that art still changes the way we see the world.
Here’s to a creative, connected, and inspiring 2026 ahead.
Hey, there! I’m Jasmine Berry, a freelance illustrator based in sunny Perth, Western Australia. Most days you’ll find me sketching away on my iPad or surrounded by pencils and cats, chasing new ideas. I like to think of myself as eternally optimistic—always seeing the fun, the colour, and the possibility in every project I take on. Send me a message if you would like to collaborate on a project.