The Aurealis Awards have for the last twelve years recognised the achievements of Australian writers of speculative fiction. Awards are given in the categories of science fiction, fantasy and horror, as well as for books published especially for children and young adults. Short stories in each genre are also awarded, and Golden Aurelius awards are presented to the overall best novel and best short story.
One aim of the awards is to provide an essential reading list of Australian speculative fiction, so here are some highlights to look out for: 
Fantasy Novel Shortlist
The Gods of Amyrantha by Jennifer Fallon (The Tide Lords Book Two)
Heart of Gold by Michael Pryor (Second Volume of The Laws of Magic)
Song of the Shiver Barrens by Glenda Larke (The Mirage Makers Book Three)
The Moving Water by Sylvia Kelso (Book 2 of the Rihannar Chronicles)
Heaven’s Net is Wide by Lian Hearn (Tales of the Otori The First Book) Winner
Extrasby Scott Westerfeld
Heart of Gold by Michael Pryor (Second Volume of The Laws of Magic)
Taste of Lightning by Kate Constable
Skyfall by Anthony Eaton Winner Winner
Cybele’s Secret by Juliet Marillier
Science Fiction Novel Shortlist
Dark Space by Marianne De Pierres
Remote Control by Jack Heath
The Company of the Dead by David Kowalski Winner + Golden Aurealis Winner
Saturn Returns by Sean Williams
See the full list of winners here.
