Express your interest to become a judge

Each year, the State Library of NSW assembles distinguished writers, academics, critics, translators and other sector professionals to judge our Awards. 

Each Award administered by the State Library has a panel of judges who have expertise in that field. Judges are nominated by past judges, shortlisted and winning authors, industry stakeholders and via expression of interest. They are then selected and recruited by the State Library of NSW in consultation with the State Librarian and Senior Judge. For the NSW Premier’s Literary and History Awards Judges’ appointments are subject to approval by the NSW Premier or the Minister for the Arts. 

Each Judge receives an honorarium. Judges are not eligible to enter Awards in the year they are judging. Panels evaluate submissions in accordance with the Guidelines of the Award. Judges’ discussions are held independent of the State Library of NSW and State Library staff take no part in these deliberations, except to help determine a submission’s eligibility.

If you are interested in being considered for appointment as a judge please email with the following information: 

• Cover letter 
• Curriculum vitae
• Reference(s) 
• Contact details 

If you have any further questions please contact the Senior Project Officer, Awards on (02) 9273 1582 or (02) 9273 1605.