Unless you’re a bestselling author, chances are you need to squeeze writing in around your day job. How can it be done? Melanie Cheng discusses how to write and maintain creativity while earning a living. Part creative development, part networking, part writing group, the Established Author Forum features in-depth lectures at a high level from prominent writers on the topics they know best, as well as an opportunity to ask questions about their work and your own. After each lecture, writers share wins, frustrations, opportunities and industry developments within a social setting.
Eligibility: The Writers Victoria Established Author Forum is for those who have authored at least one traditionally-published book, screenplay or play. If you are contracted to publish your first book this year, work in the industry or have an equivalent track record of short-form publications, you are also welcome to attend. If you are unsure about your eligibility, please email [email protected].
Details
- When: Thursday 24 October, 6.30–8.30pm
- Where: The Wheeler Centre, 176 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne
- With: Melanie Cheng
About the Tutor

Melanie Cheng is an author and doctor based in Melbourne, Australia. Her short story collection, Australia Day, was awarded the 2018 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for Fiction. Her novel, Room for a Stranger, was shortlisted for the 2020 NSW Premier’s Literary Awards and longlisted for the 2020 Miles Franklin Award. Her writing has been published in The Guardian, The Age, The Saturday Paper, The Australian and The Big Issue, among many others. Her new novel, The Burrow, will be published in September 2024.