Writing Their Own Chapter

How Dr Julia and Richard Evans are changing the publishing landscape, together

When Dr Julia Evans and Richard Evans founded 852 Press in 2020, they weren’t just launching an independent publishing consultancy — they were building a platform for writers to take control of their own stories.

At its heart, 852 Press is about demystifying the self-publishing process. Through clear, step-by-step education and concierge-style services, Julia and Richard guide authors from initial idea to final product, making the dream of becoming a published writer an achievable reality.

The Minds Behind 852 Press

With a background as an adult education expert, award-winning academic, and extensive experience in national policy advocacy, particularly in small business education, franchising, humanities, and the arts, Dr Julia Evans brings a wealth of experience in helping individuals turn their knowledge into lasting impact. Julia also manages the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry and has two books of her own scheduled for release in 2026.

Her husband, Richard Evans, complements this educational foundation with a storytelling pedigree forged in the corridors of power. As a former federal member of parliament and Australia’s notable political crime author, Richard crafts thrillers that lay bare the realities of political life. His ninth novel, Horrible People, launched in 2025 alongside Australia’s federal election, draws directly from his first-hand experience. "These stories aren't imagined from afar," he says. "I've lived them."

Since 2020, Julia and Richard have been working to make publishing with a global reach more accessible and affordable for Australian writers, encouraging and equipping authors to take ownership of their creative journeys without sacrificing quality.

A Concierge Approach to Publishing

852 Press offers more than just advice; it delivers a hands-on, tailored service covering every facet of publishing—manuscript development, cover design, typesetting, marketing, and distribution. But above all, education remains their core mission: equipping writers the knowledge and skills to confidently manage their own publishing future.

"The publishing industry can be tough," Julia says. "Big publishers chase celebrities and top selling authors and rarely look at their ‘slush pile’, while too many predatory services exploit aspiring writers. At the same time, some authors need help elevating their work to a professional standard."

The company’s name, 852 Press, has special significance. It not only captures Richard's personal writing philosophy—eight revisions, five independent readers, and two expert editors—but also honours his tenure as Australia's 852nd federal parliamentarian.

Encouraging Authors Everywhere

From their base in the Whitsundays, Julia and Richard have spent the past three years running free workshops at libraries across the Greater Whitsundays, Townsville, and beyond. Their impact now extends internationally; during a recent world voyage aboard Cunard’s Queen Anne, they delivered 16 writing and publishing workshops to over 1,700 participants. Many attendees have since gone on to start or complete their own writing projects.

“Everyone has a story worth telling,” Richard says. "Whether your life has been marked by extraordinary events or quiet moments of reflection, finding your narrative thread can be transformational."

As Julia puts it, “Many writers are passionate but stuck. They just need the right tools, presented in a way they can understand and apply.” Through 852 Press, the couple’s workshops and services aim to bridge that gap.

Building a Business — and a Life — Together

Running a business as a married team presents its own unique challenges—and opportunities. Julia and Richard are the first to acknowledge that their success lies in respecting each other’s strengths.

“You have to amplify what the other person brings to the table," Julia explains. "Growth happens when you work on projects that energise you both."

Richard agrees. “Having separate workspaces and routines is crucial. You need to maintain your individuality. Plus, sharing household responsibilities and prioritising self-care makes it all sustainable.”

Together, Julia and Richard embody the spirit of collaboration—both in life and in business—working side by side to foster a more accessible and capable publishing world.

Their message to aspiring writers is simple and direct: If not now, when? When are you going to write your story?

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