Darby Jones

Writer | Editor

I’m a freelance writer and editor with matrilineal ties to the Kamilaroi mob in Southwest Queensland.

In 2023, I obtained a Bachelor of Arts (Writing) from the University of Queensland as the valedictorian of my graduating class. I’m also a proud alumnus of the black&write! Indigenous Writing and Editing Project, where I was rigorously trained in the art of structural editing, copy editing, proofreading, and manuscript development.

As a writer, I’ve contributed to Griffith Review, Island Magazine, IndigenousX, and The Brisbane Times. As an editor, I’ve collaborated with Griffith Review, University Queensland Press, Bundyi (Simon & Schuster), Penguin Random House (Australia and UK), Hachette (Australia and UK), Pan Macmillan, Queensland Art Gallery, Kill Your Darlings (New Australian Fiction), and the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies.

I’m an advocate for diverse representation in literature. Consequently, I’ve dedicated my career to amplifying the voices of marginalised peoples.

In addition to my freelance pursuits, I currently work as an Editorial Assistant at Griffith Review. I’m available for a number of writing and editing services by way of consultation.

  • ‘I've had the great pleasure of working with Darby in a few different capacities over the years in my role as editor of the literary journal Griffith Review – he's written for the journal and has commissioned and edited essays for its print and online iterations. Darby is an incredibly astute editor: he communicates clearly and sensitively with writers and is able to offer both big-picture structural direction and more granular, sentence-level feedback to help make a piece of prose really sing. He's also very respectful of authorial voice, offering guidance that enhances (rather than dictates or overwhelms) a writer's intention and vision. I'm consistently impressed by his strong work ethic, impeccable professionalism and deep commitment to, and care for, the complex craft of editing.’

    Carody Culver

    Editor, Griffith Review Literary Journal

  • ‘Having worked with us on sensitivity reads, Darby delivers insightful, well-articulated and expert-level feedback, seamlessly balancing big-picture context with in-depth analysis. His reports are of the highest quality, reflecting both his thorough approach and deep expertise. Beyond his technical acumen, Darby’s warm and generous tone fosters meaningful discussions, encourages learning and curiosity, and sparks empathy and connection. He has been highly adaptable to our schedules, and we are immensely grateful for his contributions. I wholeheartedly recommend Darby without hesitation.’

    Emma Rafferty

    Editorial Manager, Hachette Australia

  • 'Darby Jones is a gifted writer and editor distinguished by his sensitivity to diverse voices, including those of Aboriginal artists. He demonstrated great creative energy and discerning editorial judgement as Editor Intern at the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art.’

    Mark Gomes

    Senior Editor, Print & Digital Media, QAGOMA

  • ‘Darby provided fiction editing that was high-quality and detail-focussed. He was always responsive and efficient, with a strong understanding of narrative conventions. His enthusiasm and professionalism was well-received by the author and made for a collaborative, productive and culturally sensitive process.’

    Suzy Garcia

    Editor, Kill Your Darlings

  • ‘Darby has performed several sensitivity reads for our resources. His advice has been indispensable. He is generous with his explanations and provides feedback in a clear and encouraging manner. Darby is always friendly, professional, and sticks to his deadlines. He is terrific to work with and I have no hesitation in recommending his services to others.’

    Jenny Ryan

    Editor & Digital Publisher, Reading Australia

  • ‘Darby has been instrumental in ensuring that the resources we are creating at the Victorian Association for the Teaching of English (VATE) are culturally appropriate and safe for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and teachers. Darby has provided cultural sensitivity advice to support our Teaching First Nations Perspectives series and has compiled a language and terminology guide for our resource writers and presenters. Across these projects, Darby has been generous with his feedback and has provided considered commentary that has enhanced the quality, accuracy and delivery of our work. He has been non-judgemental and patient at every stage. Darby has been (and continues to be) an asset to our educational resource development.’

    Emma Jenkins

    Education Officer, VATE