Meg Mundell

Author, Journalist, Social Commentator

Meg Mundell is a novelist, journalist, short fiction writer and teacher who is passionate about the power of storytelling. Meg has taught journalism at the University of Melbourne and run creative writing workshops for young homeless people. She has a strong interest in creativity, social justice and sense of place.

Where were you born?

I was born in Huntly, a tiny coal-mining town on the Waikato River in New Zealand, famous for its power station and its hot pies (pop. approx. 7000). Here is a song about Huntly, and also another one here.

What other jobs have you had?

I’ve worked as a researcher, zucchini-sizer, journalist, ventriloquist’s assistant, university lecturer, stable-hand, barmaid, government advisor, nightclub DJ, ghostwriter, strawberry-picker and deputy editor of The Big Issue magazine.

What themes are recurring in your work?

The themes that tend to come up in my writing include hope, survival, compassion, courage, creativity, places, dreams, consequences, work, exploitation, vulnerability, control, power and surveillance.

Where have your works been published?

I write regularly for The Age, and have also been published in The Monthly, Best Australian Stories, Sleepers Almanac, New Australian Stories, Meanjin, Sydney Morning Herald, The Big Issue and Melbourne magazine.

What are you passionate about?

The power of storytelling and its ability to connect us with people, places and ideas. Exploration. Teaching. Learning. Social justice. Squirrels. All sorts of things, really!

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

I grew up on a farm and really love animals. I have a degree in psychology and I’m interested in mental health. My favourite number is 8, and green is my favourite colour.