Costs of Publishing a Book in Australia: Self-Publishing vs Traditional Publishing

When considering publishing a book in Australia, one of the most critical decisions you face is whether to go with a traditional publisher or self-publish your work. This article will explore the various costs and options, helping you make an informed choice.

Traditional Publishing Costs and Benefits

Traditional publishing, or the process where a book is published by a recognized publisher, can be free if you're accepted onto a book deal. Real professional traditional publishers handle the following tasks at no extra cost to the author:

Professional editing Professional cover design Professional book formatting

Moreover, some publishers even pay authors in advance. This is a significant advantage, as it can provide financial support before your book is even published. However, it's important to note that some publishers may require that your manuscript undergoes a thorough editing process before they commit to publishing it.

Vanity Presses and Scammers: A Word of Caution

It's crucial to avoid vanity presses and scammers, as they often charge exorbitant fees upfront and offer little in return. Instead, consider self-publishing, especially if you're on a tight budget or want creative control over your work. Self-publishing platforms provide the necessary tools to publish both eBooks and print books.

Self-Publishing Options in Australia

There are several self-publishing platforms available to Australian authors:

Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP): One of the most popular choices, KDP offers a range of services, though it does not market directly in Australia for print books. They can contract with Ingram Spark for other markets. Ingram Spark: This platform is great for print books, although it charges a $50 upload fee for each edit. Lulu and Nool: These platforms offer creative control and support for various print and eBook formats. Smashwords and Draft2Digital: Ideal for eBooks, these platforms offer straightforward processes and no fees for eBooks.

Ebook-only Options

For authors who are only interested in eBooks, consider the following:

Nook, iBooks, and Kobo: These platforms support eBooks exclusively. Smashwords: Offers wide distribution for eBooks across multiple platforms. Draft2Digital: A platform that aims to simplify the self-publishing process.

The Distribution and Payment Process

After publishing your book, you'll need to think about distribution and payment. Traditional publishers often provide a lump sum to authors, with a percentage of royalties taken after a certain number of copies have sold. For example, a well-known model is 95% royalties after the publisher has taken their share.

Self-publishing, on the other hand, allows you to keep around 70% of the royalties, but you may need to cover the initial costs of printing. With platforms like Amazon Kindle, you might be able to set up your account in Australia and receive payments in Australian funds. However, for print books, the funds are usually in American dollars.

Carefully consider your financial situation and goals when deciding between traditional publishing and self-publishing. Each option has its pros and cons, so it's crucial to weigh them thoroughly before making a decision.

Conclusion

Whether you choose to work with a traditional publisher or self-publish, it's essential to research thoroughly and understand the costs involved. Traditional publishing offers a hands-off approach with financial support, while self-publishing gives you creative control and the potential for higher royalties. By understanding the options, you can make the best choice for your book and career.