The short story contest is a rare opportunity for new and emerging writers to have their work published in a national print magazine. The contest is free of charge and each published writer receives a $500 prize.

The big problem Editor Amy Hetherington says the popular special issue is not only a highlight for readers and sellers, but also an increasingly valuable showcase of local talent.

“Now in its 20th year, Fiction Edition shows how important it is to have an accessible platform in Australia for anyone who has a story to tell,” she said.

“The Fiction Edition is not only a best-seller edition for our retailers, but also an exceptional opportunity for emerging authors to showcase their work on a national level. The edition is full of fantastic stories and I congratulate all of our successful authors!”

The Fiction Edition served as a launching pad for authors who subsequently embarked on successful literary careers.

Crime writer Jane Harper was inspired to write her international bestseller The dry after her short story Spiders and flies was published in the Fiction Edition 2014.

Melissa Manning’s story from 2018 Stone was part of their Smokehouse Collection that won the 2022 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for Fiction.

Other authors discovered through the submission process have gone on to win the Miles Franklin and Vogel Literary Awards.

Copies are available for $9 from The big problem Providers across the country.

The providers are equipped for cash, card and app payments.

Readers who do not live near a retailer can purchase the magazine via The big problem‘s online store or subscribe and support the Women’s Workforce.

The big problem is an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting and creating employment opportunities for people affected by homelessness, exclusion and disadvantage.