Bumper Year for Book Trade

Despite digital disruption and changing consumer habits, the Australian book trade is enjoying another strong year. Book sales across fiction, memoir, cookbooks and children’s titles have continued to flourish—especially around Christmas and gifting periods—proving that our love for books is far from over.

Independent bookstores, online retailers and publishers alike are benefiting from a resurgence in reading culture, supported by bestselling titles, author events, and reader communities on social platforms like TikTok’s #BookTok.

Booksellers See Growth, Hire More Staff

Australian bookstores are reporting increased foot traffic, especially during peak seasons. According to industry data from the Australian Publishers Association, year-on-year book sales have held steady or grown, with fiction, cookery and children’s literature leading the charge. To keep up with demand, many retailers boost casual staffing during major promotional periods like Christmas and Mother’s Day.

What Australians Are Reading in 2025

1. Fiction Continues to Lead

Contemporary fiction remains the most popular category, with breakout novels by Australian authors like Trent Dalton and Pip Williams topping the charts. Genre fiction—including crime, romance and speculative fiction—is also thriving, fuelled by streaming tie-ins and book club recommendations.

2. Cookbooks Never Go Out of Style

Australians continue to embrace home cooking, with titles by Maggie Beer, Adam Liaw and Nagi Maehashi (of RecipeTin Eats) dominating bestseller lists. Plant-based, sustainable and budget-friendly themes are especially popular in 2025.

3. Memoir and Biography Stay Strong

New memoirs by public figures, sports stars and creatives remain strong performers. Recent hits include titles from Hamish Blake, Dylan Alcott, and food writer Hetty McKinnon. Autobiography remains a consistent favourite for gift buyers.

4. Children’s and YA Books Are Thriving

Children’s classics and new releases are booming, thanks in part to screen adaptations and school reading programs. Series like Heartstopper by Alice Oseman, Bluey tie-ins, and graphic novels continue to capture young readers’ attention.

The Book Trade as a Career Path

If you’re passionate about books and storytelling, there are growing opportunities in publishing, editing, bookselling, content marketing and literary events. Explore your options with relevant training:

• • Creative writing and publishing courses
  • Marketing and communications programs with a focus on digital content and publishing

 

From traditional publishing to online book marketing, the industry is adapting fast—offering creative and fulfilling roles for those who love the written word.

Still a Reader’s Market

Whether you’re a lifelong reader, a bookseller riding the seasonal wave, or exploring a career in publishing, the Australian book trade continues to inspire. And with local talent shining on the world stage, it’s a great time to support Australian authors and independent booksellers alike.

Looking to turn your love of books into a rewarding career? Check out our arts and humanities course listings to find the right pathway for you.