Pens Against Poverty is a unique writing competition.
Pens Against Poverty is open to all school students in Years 3-10 across Australia. This year’s theme is Staying Brave.
The competition closed on Friday 26 September 2025. Winners have officially been announced as part of Anti-Poverty Week, with a ceremony for students and teachers to be held in Canberra later this year.
This year, we are thrilled to partner with organisations across Australia to see Pens Against Poverty reaching more schools than ever before.
The competition is coordinated with the support of Anglicare Australia.
Pens Against Poverty is an official activity of Anti-Poverty Week.
About Pens Against Poverty
Pens Against Poverty is a competition that harnesses the power of poetry, story telling, and imagination. The writing of young people is raw, honest and fresh, making the competition a unique experience for schools and students.
Resources
Anglicare Australia has developed a range of teaching resources for schools to support students to enter the Pens Against Poverty writing competition, and learn about poverty across Australia.
“The writing of young people is raw, honest and fresh. That is what makes Pens Against Poverty a unique experience for schools and students.”
Her Excellency the Hon Ms Sam Mostyn AC
Governor-General of Australia
pensagainstpoverty.com 