From Miles Franklin prize veteran Michelle de Kretster to debut novelist Winnie Dunn, we bring you all six of the shortlisted authors in this round-up of their celebrated books.

This year's shortlist features a book set in an Ancient Chinese dynasty, a collection of linked short stories and a debut by the first ever published Australian Tongan novelist. The works traverse topics of migration, home, rebellion and feminist theory and all are in contention for the prestigious $60 000 prize. 

The 2025 shortlisted works and authors:

• Chinese Postman by Brian Castro
• Theory & Practice by Michelle de Kretser
• Dirt Poor Islanders by Winnie Dunn
• Compassion by Julie Janson
• Ghost Cities by Siang Lu
• Highway 13 by Fiona McFarlane

The 2025 winner will be announced on 24 July.