What constitutes non-fiction? How is memoir different to autobiography? How do we write, research, and investigate stories that matter? What does the truth mean when writing non-fiction?
Express Media is pleased to present the 2026 return of Toolkits: Non-Fiction—an online course in the forms, skills, and ethics of writing non-fiction. This program will combine theoretical approaches, practical exercises, and group workshopping to guide young writers through the development of their work.
During this 10-week program, you’ll get to explore the many and varied forms of non-fiction. Participants will develop their skills in textual analysis, create their own original work (which can be experimental, autobiographical, biographical or journalistic), explore the possibilities of collaborative work, and learn how to pitch work to publishers when they’re done.
Participants also have the chance to learn from some of Australia’s best writers, with guest artists (to be announced) presenting live and online in sessions for young writers across the country.
Toolkits: Non-Fiction will run on Wednesdays at 6—8pm AET from 14 October to 16 December. If you are a writer or artist aged 30 and under interested in non-fiction writing, we want to hear from you!
Applications close on Sunday 27 September 2026, 11:59pm AEST.
Apply Now
Isabel Greenslade | Toolkits: Nonfiction facilitator
Isabel Greenslade is a writer, editor and painter who lives on unceded Wurundjeri country. Her writing has appeared in publications like Island, Cordite and Voiceworks, where she also edits non-fiction. This year she placed third in the Furphy Literary Award for her short story ‘Saint Kilda’. She holds a master’s degree in writing, editing and publishing from the University of Melbourne.
Toolkits: Non-Fiction is generously supported by The Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.
Become an Express Media Member!
Toolkits is free for Express Media members along with a number of other perks, events, and opportunities. You must be a member to participate in Toolkits. If you’re not already a member, you can easily sign up here.
Note: Express Media is committed to access, so if you would like to sign up and are experiencing financial hardship, please submit your application and contact us via info@expressmedia.org.au to be awarded one of our sponsored memberships if your Toolkits application is successful.
Have a question? Need help with your application? You can reach out to our Creative Producer, Mia Nie, at creativeproducer@expressmedia.org.au