A renaissance for creative writing in the university: or more of the same?

The book as a creative artefact has been recognized as a legitimate and valid academic work within universities throughout Australia. However, despite the rise in popularity of doctoral degrees by artefact and exegesis, the regulatory authorities still give preference (and research credits) to formal academic journal articles and papers over ‘creative works’. What is emerging in Australian Creative Writing faculties and Professional Writing disciplines throughout the humanities sector is a strong push for Government funding for, and recognition of the creative process within Australian universities. Along with this theoretical debate is the accompanying political lobbying for the recognition of arts practice, and indeed the role of arts practitioners in the nurturing and development of innovative, creative and economically vibrant societies. Whilst this discourse sounds positive and upbeat for the future of writing within the Australian culture, particularly within the academic setting, it was of concern that despite the supportive announcements from the newly elected Federal governmental at a recent 2020 'talkfest' to determine the future direction of policy for a 21st century community, neither the Arts nor Education were allocated a discussion stream. This paper will look at the role of the writer/author within the university and the Australian community