Annual awards inaugurated by the New South Wales government in 1979. Initially called the NSW Premier's Literary Awards, they were known as the New South Wales State Literary Awards from 1987 to 1994. After this the awards reverted to their original name. In 2005 it was announced that the awards would be renamed the New South Wales Literary Awards. However, in May 2006 it was announced that the decision to delete reference to 'Premier's' in the award title had been revoked and the awards would continue to be known as the New South Wales Premier's Literary Awards.
No awards were granted for 1998, as the awards underwent revision.
'While books can play important roles in helping children develop a positive sense of identity and of their place as equal members of society, evidence shows how the lack of diverse literature contributes to feelings of inferiority and invisibility for children from underrepresented groups as well as to a sense of superiority and normality for children from majority groups. This study reports on the representation of racial diversity in award-listed Australian children's picturesbooks in 2019 and 2020. A critical theoretical framework was employed to analyze both texts and images of ninety award-listed books. While the outcomes suggest increasing attention to diverse representation in children's literature, authentic and equitable representation falls short. Particular concerns were found regarding portrayals of First Nations people through outdated stereotypes or misinformation.' (Publication abstract)
'Gudanji and Wakaja woman Debra Dank has won a record four out of 14 NSW Premier's Literary Awards for her memoir of family, community and Country, We Come With This Place — including the top gong, Book of the Year.'
