QUT Acquires 85-Year-Old Literary Journal Meanjin, Facilitating Brisbane Return
Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has acquired the 85-year-old literary journal Meanjin, facilitating its return to Brisbane, the city of its founding. Melbourne University Press (MUP) had previously ceased publication of the journal in September. Meanjin was established in Brisbane in 1940 by Clem Christesen before relocating to Melbourne in 1945.
Acquisition Details
QUT Vice-Chancellor Professor Margaret Sheil stated that the new ownership agreement includes provisions to maintain the journal's editorial independence and establish a dedicated editorial board. Sheil highlighted Meanjin's historical contribution to Australian literary and intellectual culture as a platform for critical discussion and emerging writers. A competitive nationwide search for a new editor will be initiated.
MUP Chair Professor Warren Bebbington indicated that QUT's understanding of the journal's legacy was a significant factor in their successful bid, chosen from multiple offers.
Clarification is currently being sought from QUT and MUP regarding the copyright of Meanjin's extensive archives and associated royalties, which have provided income since the journal became an imprint of MUP in 2008.
Prior Closure and Controversy
MUP's decision to cease publication last year drew criticism from some individuals. Bebbington previously stated that the decision was based on financial grounds, leading to staff redundancies. Outgoing editor Esther Anatolis declined to comment, noting she was not informed of the ownership transfer.
It remains unclear whether QUT plans to reinstate the First Nations and linguistically diverse advisory panel previously associated with Meanjin. Former poetry editor Jeanine Leane noted that MUP's closure coincided with the journal's increasing focus on First Nations writing, adding that despite financial concerns being cited, Meanjin operated as a not-for-profit publication.
Bebbington's financial justifications for the closure were met with skepticism, partly due to the journal having recently secured a $100,000 Creative Australia grant.
Speculation arose regarding potential pressure from the University of Melbourne council following a controversial essay concerning the Gaza conflict; however, Bebbington denied this, asserting MUP acted independently. The University of Melbourne also denied any council involvement in the decision, which generated opposition within the literary community. Figures such as Barry Jones, Thomas Keneally, and Gareth Evans expressed disapproval of the journal's closure.
Meanjin is expected to be housed within QUT's School of Creative Arts, where it will complement the school’s creative writing program.