About Us
Our Story
Founded in 2016, the Canberra Writers Festival is a much-loved celebration of books, ideas and storytelling, bringing writers and thinkers together with audiences from Canberra and beyond.
The Festival’s lively program includes author talks, panel discussions, book launches, masterclasses and performances, many held in Canberra’s iconic national cultural institutions.
You can enjoy events throughout the year, culminating in the major Festival each October, featuring more than 100 local, national and international authors and events for readers of all ages. The Canberra Writers Festival also delivers a dedicated program for primary and secondary school students across Canberra.
At its heart, the Canberra Writers Festival celebrates great writing and creates a place for diverse authors, thinkers and readers to come together, share ideas and be part of the conversation.
On Open Dialogue and Freedom of Expression
You’re invited to be part of a festival that fosters artistic expression and the respectful exchange of ideas. You’ll hear nation-leading discussions on a wide range of social, political, environmental and economic issues, alongside events that entertain and celebrate the playfulness and wonder of page-turning stories.
Great literature and storytelling require freedom of expression, care and responsibility. At the Festival, you’ll hear authors express their views and share their work, beliefs and life experiences, within the framework of anti-discrimination and other relevant Australian laws. You’re also invited to listen with care, curiosity and an open mind.
Theme for 2026
We believe great literature and storytelling requires freedom of expression, care and responsibility. The festival is a place for authors to express their views, adhering to anti-discrimination and other relevant Australian laws. We also invite readers to listen with care and open minds to our writers speak about their work, beliefs and life experiences.
Our Team
Andra Putnis
Artistic Director
Rhiân Williams
Guest Creative Director, Kids and YA Program
Travis Green
Chief Executive Officer
Board Members
Jane O'Dwyer
Chair
Gregory Andrews
Deputy Chair
Putri Handrianti
Treasurer
Hannah Brown
Secretary
Sunil Badami
Board Member
Frank Bongiorno
Board Member
Alice Grundy
Board Member
Catherine Holmes
Board Member
Stephanie Palmer
Board Member
Tegan Walton
Board Member
General Enquiries
hello@canberrawritersfestival.com.au
(02) 6247 4411
Media Enquiries
media@canberrawritersfestival.com.au
(02) 6247 4412