[1] Created in 1961,[2] ABR is an independent non-profit organisation that publishes articles, reviews, commentaries, essays, and new writing.

[3] Australian Book Review was established by Max Harris and Rosemary Wighton as a monthly journal in Adelaide, Australia, in 1961.

In 1978 the journal was revived by the National Book Council and, moving to Melbourne, began producing ten issues per year.

ABR’s diverse programs include three prestigious international prizes, writers’ fellowships worth as much as $10,000, themed issues, national events, cultural tours, and paid editorial internships/cadetships.

Australian Book Review revived its annual short story competition in 2010, and in 2011 renamed it the ABR Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize in memory of the late Australian writer, Elizabeth Jolley (1923–2007).

It presents reviews of film and television, plays, operas, concerts, dance, and art exhibitions.

Funded by ABR's Patrons and by philanthropic foundations, the Fellowship program is intended to reward Australian writers.

[37] The program is intended to encourage younger writers, enhancing their critical practice and advancing their careers.