Meanjin Literary Journal Finds New Home at Queensland University of Technology

The Meanjin literary journal, a significant fixture in Australian literature, is set to return to its birthplace in Brisbane, Queensland, after being acquired by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT). Founded in 1940 by Clem Christesen, Meanjin was relocated to Melbourne in 1945 and became an imprint of Melbourne University Publishing (MUP) in 2008. The journal's closure by MUP in September 2025, attributed to financial reasons, sparked widespread criticism and concern within the literary community.

The Guardian

QUT has pledged to uphold Meanjin's editorial independence and maintain its rigorous standards. Vice-Chancellor Professor Margaret Sheil emphasized the journal's historical significance, stating, “Meanjin has been instrumental in shaping Australian literary and intellectual culture for decades.” The university plans to conduct a national search for a new editor and establish a dedicated editorial board to ensure the journal's legacy is respected while enhancing its relevance for future readers.

The Sydney Morning Herald

The decision to close Meanjin was met with backlash from prominent figures in the literary community, including authors Barry Jones and Thomas Keneally, who described the journal as a “lodestar” for Australian writers. Gareth Evans, a former Labor attorney general, criticized the closure as “bone-headed.” MUP chair Professor Warren Bebbington claimed the closure was based solely on financial grounds, despite the journal having recently secured a $100,000 Creative Australia grant. Speculation arose regarding potential external pressures influencing the decision, particularly following a controversial essay by Max Kaiser on the Gaza conflict, which Bebbington denied.

The Guardian

QUT aims to thoughtfully re-establish Meanjin, focusing on revitalizing its readership and ensuring a sustainable future. The university's commitment includes respecting the journal's founding vision while adapting to contemporary literary landscapes. The timeline for the release of the next issue remains unspecified, but QUT's involvement is seen as a crucial step in preserving Meanjin's legacy.

The Sydney Morning Herald

While QUT's acquisition has been welcomed, questions remain regarding the copyright of Meanjin's extensive archives and the financial arrangements that will support its future. Clarifications from both QUT and MUP regarding these issues are anticipated as the journal transitions to its new home.

The Guardian

• “Meanjin has been instrumental in shaping Australian literary and intellectual culture for decades,” — Professor Margaret Sheil, Vice-Chancellor, Queensland University of Technology

The Guardian

• “purely financial grounds,” — Professor Warren Bebbington, Chair, Melbourne University Publishing

The Guardian

• “It has provided a vital platform for critical discussion, a showcase of emerging writers and a valuable training ground for leading Australian publishers and editors.” — Professor Margaret Sheil, Vice-Chancellor, Queensland University of Technology

The Guardian

The return of Meanjin to Queensland marks a significant moment in Australian literary history, with hopes for a renewed focus on its contributions to the arts and culture.

The Sydney Morning Herald