About Us
The Historical Novel Society Australasia (HNSA) is recognised as the home of the historical fiction genre in Australia and New Zealand as the third arm of the international Historical Novel Society.
First incorporated in 2014, the HNSA promotes the writing, reading and publication of historical fiction, especially in Australia and New Zealand, through its biennial conferences held since 2015. Our events showcase the best literary talent and enable readers, writers and publishing professionals to celebrate the genre.
To improve depth, breadth and innovation in our programs, the HNSA Committee has established a Program Advisory Panel to assist in using principles of diversity and inclusion.
HNSA acknowledges the traditional owners of the lands upon which it works and recognises their continuing connection to land and water. We pay respect to elders past, present and emerging.
ARA Historical Novel Prize & EJ Corbett Mentorship
The ARA Historical Novel Prize is the flagship award of the Historical Novel Society Australasia (HNSA), celebrating exceptional works in historical fiction. It is the result of a shared vision of the HNSA and Edward Federman, Founder, Executive Chair, and CEO of the ARA Group. Since its inception in 2020 the contest has raised the profile of dozens of historical novelists, rewarded the winners, and fostered the genre on a grander scale.
Additionally, the Elizabeth Jane Corbett Mentorship supports authors of Young Adult historical fiction, nurturing new voices and ensuring the future of the genre remains fresh and diverse.
HNSA also organises several key events to support the literary community. The HNSA First Pages Pitch Contest allows emerging authors to present the opening of their novels for critique to a panel of industry experts at our biennial conferences.
Through these initiatives, HNSA is committed to fostering the growth of historical fiction in Australasia.
Bringing history to life
The society considers the historical fiction genre to be important to both the entertainment and education of readers as it contributes to the knowledge of the reader and provides a valid perspective beyond the viewpoint of the historian. Both the imagination and dedication of historical novelists present an authentic world which can enrich a reader’s understanding of real historical personages, eras and events.
The HNSA has held 5 biennial conferences starting in 2015, including our first online conference in 2021. Our next conference is in 2025.
Looking for more?
Join us on the HNSA Facebook Group where you can participate in all our discussions about historical fiction, new books, writing tips and more.
You can read more about historical fiction and the people who write it on News & Interviews.
Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on our conferences, online programs, mentorships and the ARA Historical Novel Prize.