Categories and Media Requirements

Entrants should select the category that best reflects the dominant style and intent of their Feature writing, rather than the publication format or word count.

This award recognises outstanding short form feature writing that demonstrates high standards of writing, strength of thought and freshness of ideas, delivered with clarity, and impact.

Entries typically focus on people, moments or themes in sport, using concise storytelling, strong narrative focus and effective reporting to bring stories to life. While short-form features may respond to current events, they are judged on their storytelling quality and insight.

Short form refers to the approach and construction of the feature, not a fixed word count, and may be published across digital, print and hybrid formats.

Features in this category are judged on:

• Excellence in writing and storytelling
• Strength of thought and originality
• Clarity, focus and economy of language
• Effective use of interviews and reporting
• Impact, engaging readers quickly and memorably

Entries for both short/Longform may consist of up to five published columns and up to 500-word citation, detailing the feature writers voice and approach, the themes or issues explored and how the work demonstrates consistency, insight and impact during the eligibility year.