Lia Lao is a writer of literary fiction, speculative fiction, and always — freak girl fiction. Originally from New Zealand, she is currently based in Australia on Gadigal land. She is part of the Clarion West Novel Writing Workshop and Granta Writers’ Workshop Class of ‘26, a Viable Paradise ‘25 alumna, and has featured in Reactor Magazine’s “Must Read Short Speculative Fiction.”

Previously, she has been published in Otherside, Haven Spec, Fusion Fragment, and more. Follow her @‌thelialao on Twitter/Bluesky/Instagram/TikTok for future updates or check out her website: thelialao.com.