While the indigenous peoples of Australia likely had oral history or even written word, most of the early literature of Australia is from European settlers or convicts, as the British Empire used to send convicted criminals to Australia as a open air prison. 

From this early period, the journals of James Cook famously detailed his voyages to the Australian continent. Many other writings from early Australian history detail settler’s struggles with the environment and encounters with the people native to Australia.

In the late 19th century “Bush Ballads” became popular, which were tributes to the beautiful but deadly landscape of Australia.  During this period, Henry Lawson became famous for his short stories and poems about life in the Australian bush. 

In the 20th century, Australian literature went through a period of modernism where writing styles began to reflect the urbanization of Australia.  Notable figures in this period were women writers such as Miles Franklin and Christina Stead.  

Australia was by no means immune to the second World War and like many other countries, the war drew a hard line in the sand between pre and post war literature. During this period Australia began to see a rise in indigenous voices. 

In 1973 Australian author Patrick White was awarded the Nobel Prize in literature. 

Post-modern literature also made its way to the big island with authors such as Tim Winton, Peter Carey, and Alexis Wright.

Today, Australia may not be the first country to come to mind when you think of great literature, but there’s no doubt that the unique blend of cultures and peoples have produced many talented writers throughout the years.