Each year, Brisbane Writers Festival brings readers and writers together to celebrate the wonder of the written word. From intimate author readings to thought-provoking panel discussions, this festival’s 110+ events serve as a nexus where book enthusiasts converge.
The 2026 edition of Brisbane Writers Festival will run will take place at Brisbane Powerhouse with the events taking place at different spaces within, including author talks, panel discussions, special events and workshops.
A diverse array of legendary authors hailing from Brisbane and Queensland, likeSally Piper, Sita Walker, Frances Whiting, Mirandi Riwoe, Melissa Lucashenko, Robin Bailey, Grantlee Kieza, Ian Kemish, Trent Dalton, and more feature on the program, sharing the spotlight with a star-studded lineup of national and international guests.
This year’s Australian headline authors include Suzie Miller, Richard Flanagan, Pip Williams, Kate Grenville, Lisa Wilkinson and Shaun Micallef, who will be joined by international superstars such as acclaimed English author and London Review of Books Editor at Large Andrew O’Hagan; American journalist and writer Susan Orlean; Heartstopper creator Alice Oseman; and US speculative-fiction author Charlie Jane Anders, among many others!
Other highlights include a conversation with BookTok sensation and men’s mental health advocate Luke Bateman, and curated events and talks showcasing First Nations storytellers, like Melissa Lucashenko, Anita Heiss and Debra Dank.
This year’s BWF is shaping up to be the best yet, with Artistic Director Jackie Ryan saying, “From Formula 1 racing, gardening and cosy crime through to swordfights, heartbreak, corporate scams, literary heists and the glorification of Australian kitsch, you are most cordially invited to check out the 2026 program—’cause have we got a story for you!”
Practical information
This year’s Brisbane Writers Festival will take place from Thursday, October 8 to Sunday, October 11.
Tickets to regular sessions are $29, and a 4-event bundle is $99. Other events vary in price and 10% of the whole program is free!
Check out the full program here, and get all the ticket information here.
📍Brisbane Powerhouse, Yuggera and Turrbal Country, 119 Lamington St, New Farm
