Erin Gough

Where were you born?

On Cammeraygal land in Sydney, Australia.

What other jobs have you had?

My previous jobs include market researcher, web content manager, newspaper columnist, and policy lawyer. As well as writing, I currently work in the not-for-profit sector.

What themes are recurring in your work?

When I was a young adult, there wasn’t much fiction written for my age group that featured non-heterosexual characters. I was trying to work out who I was and what I wanted to be, and I felt this absence keenly. It is therefore important to me to write characters that don’t necessarily comply with sexual or gender norms. My writing questions notions of identity, explores the themes of understanding and acceptance, and celebrates individuality and community. Social activism is also a key theme in my books - I'm interested in exploring how young people can find their power to change their circumstances and the world around them.

What have been the highlights of your career?

Winning the Ampersand Prize for new Young Adult Fiction for The Flywheel was pretty amazing, as was winning the Readings Prize and the NSW Premier's Prize for Amelia Westlake. My writing has also given me the opportunity to travel to some wonderful places, such as Istanbul, where I undertook a writing residency. The best thing though, has been the chance to interact with young readers who connect with the stories I’ve written.

What are you passionate about?

Representing diversity in my fiction and in doing so, helping young people imagine a positive future for themselves. Examining the dynamics of power and privilege. Engaging in key issues facing contemporary society, like climate change, human rights, and discrimination.

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

You can find out more about me on my website and on Instagram.