Kill Your Darlings is thrilled to kick off the year with the announcement of the inaugural Flash Fiction Prize. 

We welcome submissions of previously unpublished stories between 750–1000 words. Submissions are open now, and close midnight Sunday 23 March 2025.  Judged by KYD editor Suzy Garcia and KYD publishing director Rebecca Starford, the winner will receive $1000, and three runners-up will receive $500. All winning pieces will be published online at Kill Your Darlings. 

Submissions will close at 11:59pm AEDT, Sunday, 23 March 2025.

Please note that Submittable is a different platform to the KYD website, so you’ll need to create a new account there separate to your KYD login details.

Flash Fiction is a genre that challenges writers to be faster, punchier and more focused in their storytelling. ‘Arrive late, leave early’ is a useful way of shaping these narratives. Some of our favourite writers of this form include Lydia Davis, Naguib Mahfouz, Jamaica Kincaid, Franz Kafka and Augusto Monterosso. 

Please note: To submit your work to the KYD Flash Fiction Prize, you must be a KYD member. Along with helping us fund writing prizes and other programs, your membership includes course discounts, exclusive creative resources, professional development opportunities and industry-expert guidance on your pathway to publication. 

Become a member for just $49.95 here.

Happy writing!

Need some inspiration?

Help put pen to paper with these helpful courses: 

	Writing Very Short Stories with Ennis Ćehić Discover how to tell a sharp, punchy story with the fewest words possible.
	Finding Ideas for Fiction with Claire Thomas How to recognise a good idea, and turn it into a winning story.

	Flash Fiction Masterclass Purchase Ennis and Claire’s courses together in this bundle and save!