Publishing acquisition stays in Australian hands
Sydney, Monday, December 1, 2025
Twice nominated Australian Small Publisher of the Year, Rockpool Publishing is thrilled to announce its acquisition of fellow independent Australian publisher, Major Street Publishing. Under the agreement, Rockpool will assume ownership of Major Street’s brand, frontlist, backlist and author relationships. This partnership marks an exciting new chapter that will strengthen Rockpool’s growing presence in the Australian market, while enabling Major Street to benefit from Rockpool’s robust infrastructure and international distribution network.
Founded in 2009 in Melbourne by Lesley Williams, Major Street Publishing has established a compelling and respected catalogue of business, finance and self-development titles authored by leading Australian experts.
“Major Street has always been fiercely independent, so I am delighted to have found a home for our books and authors within a family-owned and run publishing house,” says Major Street founder, Lesley Williams. “Rockpool has an extraordinary track record of discovering and championing Australian voices and taking them to the world stage. Their remarkable growth over the past 20 years speaks for itself, and I’m excited to collaborate with their talented and visionary creative team.”
The newly formed Moore Street Media will oversee the continued growth and development of Major Street, Rockpool Publishing, Gelding Street Press, and the new gift imprint, Sweet Hearts Press.
“This is a fantastic win for Australian publishing, ensuring that exceptional local talent and publishing expertise remain in Australian ownership—where we can continue to elevate local authors, expand their global reach, and bring valuable export revenue back into our creative industries,” say Rockpool Publishing owners Paul Dennett and Lisa Hanrahan.
The integration of Major Street Publishing into Rockpool’s publishing program will commence immediately, with Lesley Williams continuing in her role as imprint Publisher for the next three years.
This transition plan ensures that all Major Street titles will maintain their distinct brand identity while benefiting from new stewardship.
No immediate changes are planned for Major Street Publishing’s distribution in Australia.
For further comment, please contact Vicky Smith, Marketing Manager at Rockpool Publishing. E: vicky.smith@rockpoolpublishing.com