First, you need to polish your story to make it as good as possible. Then, research Australian literary magazines and publishers that accept short stories. Follow their submission guidelines precisely.
One big challenge could be the competition. There are a lot of talented writers in Australia. But on the plus side, there are many literary events and festivals that offer great exposure.
The requirements for a short story competition can vary. It could be that you have to submit your story by a certain deadline, stick to a particular style of writing, and make sure your story hasn't been published elsewhere before.
You can start by researching Australian literary magazines and publishers that accept short story submissions. Many have specific guidelines on their websites.
To win, you need a compelling opening to hook the judges. Develop complex characters they can relate to. And, proofread carefully to eliminate any errors.
First, come up with an interesting idea. Make it unique and something that will catch the judges' attention. Then, focus on creating well-developed characters and a clear plot. Also, pay attention to your writing style - keep it engaging and easy to follow.
One common theme is national pride. Many stories will show Australians celebrating their country's unique identity, whether it's through flag - waving or enjoying local traditions. Another theme is community. People come together on Australia Day, so stories often feature friends and families gathering for barbecues or parades.
Some popular options include literary magazines like 'Overland' and online platforms such as 'Writers Bloc'. It also depends on the genre of your short story.