The Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) is a not-for-profit, volunteer-run organization established in 1945 with the aim of engaging the community with literature for young Australians. The CBCA presents annual awards to Australian books of literary merit, recognizing outstanding contributions to Australian children’s literature. The Book of the Year Awards, initiated in 1946, promote books of high literary and artistic quality, making them the most influential and highly respected awards in Australia.
Each year, the CBCA brings children and books together through events like Children’s Book Week, celebrating the importance of reading and storytelling. The organization works in collaboration with authors, illustrators, publishers, and other stakeholders in the children’s book industry to foster a love for literature among children and adults alike. Australian children’s literature plays a vital role in enriching the nation and reaching young readers globally through international editions.
The CBCA comprises state branches that actively promote literature and literacy within their regions. These branches contribute to the selection process for the Book of the Year Awards, ensuring a diverse representation of voices and perspectives. The National Board of the CBCA consists of members nominated by state/territory branches or serving as independent directors, collectively working towards the organization’s mission of supporting and celebrating the best of Australian literature for young people. As the CBCA looks forward to its upcoming 80th anniversary, it continues to uphold its commitment to promoting storytelling and the transformative power of stories across generations.