Darby Jones is a freelance writer and editor of Kamilaroi, Scottish, and English heritage.

In 2023, he obtained a Bachelor of Arts (Writing) from the University of Queensland as the valedictorian of his graduating class.

He is an alumnus of the State Library of Queensland’s black&write! Indigenous Writing and Editing Project, where he was rigorously trained in the art of structural editing, copy editing, proofreading, and manuscript development.

He is an advocate for diverse representation in literature and is dedicated to amplifying the voices of marginalised peoples.

He is available for a number of writing and editing services by way of consultation.

Editing

Griffith Review 87 (commissioning editor)

VATE: The Victorian Association for the Teaching of English (guest editor)

Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (freelance editor)

Griffith Review Online (commissioning editor via black&write!)

Kill Your Darlings (freelance editor)

Queensland Art Gallery (editor intern)

Lemonade: Letters to Art (guest editor)

Accolades

Magabala Books

  • Creative Development Scholarship (2023)

Varuna: The National Writers House

  • First Nations Fellowship (2023)

Red Room Poetry

  • Shortlisted: Emerging Poets Residency (2023)

The University of Queensland

  • Valedictorian: School of Communication and Arts (2023)

  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Unit: Academic Excellence Award (2023)

  • Kingshott Cassidy Poetry Award (2022)

  • Dean’s Commendation for Academic Excellence (2021, 2022, 2023)

Kill Your Darlings

  • Shortlisted: Creative Non-Fiction Essay Prize (2022)