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Join us in Brisbane or online for the CYA Conference 2026, a hybrid event for writers and illustrators at every stage, across children’s, young adult, and adult literature.


What to expect

  • Two in-person streams in Brisbane, broadcast online so you can take part from anywhere.

  • Practical, industry-led sessions that offer clear next steps, fresh ideas, and real-world guidance.

  • An inclusive community that welcomes creatives from around the world.


Session times and access

  • Brisbane time (AEST): All sessions are scheduled in local Brisbane time.

  • On-demand viewing: Every session will be recorded and available for 14 days after the live event, so you can catch both streams and rewatch at your convenience.


Speakers and programme

Our speakers and tutors will be confirmed when the programme is announced. Please note that unforeseen circumstances may result in changes to the program. We appreciate your understanding in advance. 


Join us

Connect with peers, learn from experts, and build your craft in a supportive environment—on site or online. Secure your place today for a conference that brings the best of children’s, young adult and adult literature to you.

Two parallel streams are offered, and you can change between them at any stage of the program.

10 July 2026 at 10:30:00 pm

Registration & Morning coffee

10 July 2026 at 10:45:00 pm

Conference Opening

Welcome to Country
Competition Winners Announced

10 July 2026 at 11:30:00 pm

Success panel

11 July 2026 at 12:30:00 am

Morning Tea

11 July 2026 at 12:45:00 am

Steve Heron

Beyond the Bullying Hype – Balancing the Power

11 July 2026 at 1:35:00 am

Peter Rowland

No fiction books in the real world

11 July 2026 at 12:45:00 am

Zena Shapter

Self Editing for novelists
(90 minutes)

11 July 2026 at 2:15:00 am

Lunch

Kate Rossignol

11 July 2026 at 3:15:00 am

Kate Rossignol

What teachers want in a school visit

Richard Pritchard

11 July 2026 at 4:00:00 am

Richard Pritchard

Stories That Stick

Charmaine Ross

11 July 2026 at 3:15:00 am

Charmaine Ross

How to know when your book is truly market-ready
(90 minutes)

11 July 2026 at 4:45:00 am

Afternoon Tea

Panel

11 July 2026 at 5:00:00 am

Panel

Self published or companion publishing - Controlling your pathway

Sophie Hamley

11 July 2026 at 5:00:00 am

Sophie Hamley

Trade Publishing Strategy: Agents and Submission Pathways

Panel

11 July 2026 at 6:00:00 am

Panel

Going forward, expectations 2026/2027

Close of Conference.

11 July 2026 at 7:00:00 am

Close of Conference.

Success Panel Coming Soon
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