Supporting Australian writers and publishers

More than $26 million is on its way into the pockets of Australian authors, publishers, and illustrators – including, for the first time, creators of audio and eBooks – under the Australian Government’s Public Lending Right and Educational Lending Right Schemes.

The schemes ensure Australian book publishers and creators – including authors, illustrators, editors, translators and compilers – are compensated for the loss of income through the free multiple use of their work in Australian public and educational lending libraries.

In line with a commitment under Revive, the National Cultural Policy, the Government last year expanded the scheme to include eBook and audiobooks, reflecting the changing ways Australians engage with literature.

Payments will be made to more than 18,000 creators and publishers, including 1,400 new claimants receiving payments for the first time.

Total payments under the schemes this year of $26.64 million represent an increase of $3.38 million over 2022-23 payments. 

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the expansion of the schemes is another way the Government is making sure arts workers are recognised and valued as workers. 

“The Australian literature sector is home to some of Australia’s greatest storytellers – and we’re committed to supporting them so they can continue to tell and share our stories.

“This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Public Lending Rights scheme, introduced in 1974 by the Whitlam Government. It’s only fitting that five decades on, we can celebrate a modernised and expanded scheme that supports even more creators.

“We’re serious about supporting Australian literature. That’s why we recently introduced legislation to Parliament to establish Writing Australia, within Creative Australia, to become a hub for the sector, to build expertise and partnerships, and to support writers and publishers.”  

Australian book publishers, authors, illustrators, editors, translators and compilers can register their work for payment under the next round of the schemes by 31 March 2025 here.