Introducing the UNESCO Cities of Literature Fellowship

By Melbourne City of Literature | Posted: Wednesday Apr 01, 2026

Fellowship period: 1 August 2026 – 30 June 2027. EOIs close: 9am AEST, 7 April 2026

This fellowship is part of State Library Victoria broader Fellowships Program and sits within the Research Fellowships stream.

It aims to strengthen Melbourne's standing as a UNESCO City of Literature, foster interdisciplinary creative practice and research, promote exchange between Melbourne and other Cities of Literature globally, and showcase the State Library and its collections internationally.

Unlike all the other focus areas which require Australian-based applicants, this one is open to applicants based in any other UNESCO City of Literature worldwide. They must be based in and applying from one of those cities to be eligible.

The standard fellowship offer of $15,000, a dedicated desk at the Library for up to 3 months, and access to collections and staff expertise — plus return economy flights to/from Melbourne from their home city. Accommodation assistance is available through the Melbourne City of Literature office, but the cost is the fellow's own responsibility.

Full details here: Program guidelines | State Library Victoria