Why submit a letter to The Age?
Letters to the editor are a direct way to share your perspective with a broad audience. They can influence public debate, highlight local issues, and reflect the voice of everyday readers. The Age, a major Australian newspaper, publishes letters that are timely, well-argued, and clearly written. If you want your viewpoint to appear in print or online, understanding the submission process and common expectations can improve your chances of being published.
What editors look for in a letter
Editors seek letters that are concise, relevant, and readable. A strong letter presents a clear point, supports it with brief reasoning, avoids personal attacks, and stays within the publication’s ethical guidelines. Letters that reference recent news, local events, or ongoing public discussions tend to resonate more with readers. Including a precise location (city or town) helps establish relevance.
Preparing your letter
Before you send, draft your letter with care. Aim for a tight, 100–180 word piece that makes a single, well-supported argument. If your topic is time-sensitive, emphasize why it matters now. Use plain language, short sentences, and concrete examples. Read your letter aloud to check rhythm and flow. Remove extraneous details and avoid repeating information that has already been widely covered.
Key elements to include
- A single, clear point or argument.
- A brief rationale or evidence (e.g., a local example, a statistic, or an anecdote).
- Reference to a current story or public issue when possible.
- Your name, city, and a contact phone number for verification (the publication may not print the phone number, but it is required for editorial confirmation).
How to submit a letter to The Age
Submission rules can vary by publication date, but the standard process typically involves sending your letter via email. Here are practical steps to improve success:
- Copy your letter into the body of the email; do not attach documents unless requested.
- Include your full name, home city, and a reliable contact number for verification.
- Keep the email subject line clear and relevant (e.g., “Letter: Public transport funding in Melbourne”).
- Adhere to word limits. If the paper specifies a maximum length, stay within it.
- Avoid including any offensive language, personal attacks, or unverified claims.
Tips for increasing publication chances
- Be timely: reference a recent news item or local event.
- Be precise: present one clear point, with a short, logical argument.
- Be local: grounding your point in a specific community or issue makes it more relatable.
- Proofread: grammar and punctuation matter; a polished letter reads more credibly.
- Follow the publication’s rules: check the newspaper’s letters page for current guidelines and contact information.
What happens after you submit?
Editorial teams review submissions and decide based on relevance, timeliness, and readability. If your letter isn’t published, you may try again with a revised argument or a fresh angle. Some editors also publish online responses or longer opinion pieces from readers who demonstrate consistent, well-supported viewpoints.
Example structure for a strong letter
Opening sentence that states your position, a sentence or two of justification with a real-world example, and a closing remark that reiterates the main point and its importance to the community. Keep it within the word limit and ensure it stands on its own, even for readers who haven’t followed the original news item.
Submitting letters is a democratic practice that invites community voices into national discourse. By following the rules, presenting a clear argument, and staying respectful, you increase the likelihood that your perspective will be printed and read by a broad audience.
