First impressions matter. When you’re submitting to competitions, publishers, agents and other opportunities, your work needs to be polished to capture (and hold) the attention of your reader and/or judge. Simple errors can make or break your chances, and, like it or not, the microscope is going to be on your opening pages.

To submit with confidence, get a professional line and proof edit on your first 10,000 words to make sure it’s sharp and ready to read on – and to see the things you can’t see that could be holding your writing back.

With a focus on editorial feedback you’ll be able to apply to your complete manuscript, our First Things First service can be a cost-effective first step before pursuing a full edit. Plus, we'll offer a discount if you choose to proceed with an edit on your complete manuscript.

Members $329 / Public rate $379.
Payment due upfront.

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* 1. Writer details
If you're a member, please ensure these details match your membership records.

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* 2. Project details –

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* 3. Project format –

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* 4. Where/to what opportunity are you planning to submit this work?
Optional.

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* 5. Upload your first 10,000 words –
Submit as an unrestricted Word document (.docx). Please format your work to industry standard specifications — for most fiction and non-fiction manuscripts, this means:
  • 12pt Arial or Times New Roman font
  • Double line spacing
  • A4 page sizing, 3cm/1" margins
  • Page numbered
(Your submission should be from the beginning of your manuscript.)

PDF, DOC, DOCX file types only.
Choose File

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* 6. Accessibility requirements or other notes –
Optional.

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* 7. Membership & application fee –
First Things First is heavily discounted for members of the Centre. If you're not a member, sign up at www.queenslandwriters.org.au/join to be eligible for this pricing, or join with the option below.

You’ll enter payment info after the survey.
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