Money versus writing

[From my NZSA mailing list]

New survey shows plight of Kiwi writers

Writers say they write because that’s who they are. But it isn’t easy as new research on authors’ incomes and needs shows.

A Research International survey carried out for the New Zealand Society of Authors (PEN NZ Inc) shows that only 17% survive solely on their income from writing.

The mean total of a writers’ income from all sources, except full time work, is just $15,383 dollars a year. By comparison the minimum wage is $23,400.

Only 9% of writing-related income comes from the Authors’ Fund set up in 1973 give authors time to pursue their writing full time. The majority - 78% of the authors surveyed - said that if the Fund offered more it would enable them to make a career out of writing.

NZSA President Paul Smith said the research showed clearly that the Fund needed radical re-shaping and increased funding. The Society has already begun negotiations with the Government on this issue.

The survey was conducted from a sample of 355 mid career and established writers. Other key findings were:

· 77% of mid career authors earn less than $10,000
· The majority of established authors fell into the same category.
· Only 9% of established authors earned over $50,000
· In the last four years only 30% of mid career and established authors received a grant
· 34% of authors say without the help of family and friends they couldn’t afford to be a writer.

The above news release has generated interest from daily newspapers and radio networks throughout the country so it shows the public is interested in the plight of writers.

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