Winner: Melissa Fyfe, Good Weekend magazine, “Wedlocked”

Judges’ Citation:

This is a compelling, well written and at times shocking account of the experiences of those subjected to forced marriage in Australia.

Deeply researched and sensitively handled, the writer managed to win the trust of interviewees enabling her to tell their often harrowing stories. The courage of the interviewees in doing so is also noted.

The piece is an example of the sort of journalism that is crucial in shining light on an important subject and giving voice to those whose story would otherwise not be heard.

In a fragmented media landscape, it is a powerful reminder of the value of long-form feature writing — and of the commitment and resources required to produce it.

Shortlisted

Michael Bachelard and Ruby Schwartz, Good Weekend magazine, “Diagnosing Murder”

Louise Milligan, The Monthly, “The True Legacy of the Rapist George Pell”

Neary Ty, The Age, “Rebuilding Lives in the Shadow of Khmer Rouge Terror”