Calling All Writers & Readers: Brisbane Writers Festival Returns This October
From Page to Stage
By Ella Passfield | 25th September 2025Brisbane is about to turn the page on an exciting new chapter in literary culture. From 9-12 of October, the Brisbane Writers Festival takes up residence in a new home, the Brisbane Powerhouse, bringing together an inspiring lineup of authors, artists and storytellers. The highly anticipated return will bring more than 100 events and 200 artists from Australia and across the globe.
A festival of stories
Brisbane Writers Festival 2025 promises a treasure trove of ideas and imagination. Loose yourself in a world of fiction that spans heart stopping romance, gripping mystery and fantastical worlds, or be captivated by real-life stories of resilience that will stay with you long after the final page.
One highlight is Kate Reid, former Formula 1 engineer turned founder of the cult-favourite Lune Croissanterie. At BWF, she will share her remarkable journey from the racetrack to the oven, building one of Australia’s most talked-about bakeries.
The new chapter at the Brisbane Powerhouse
For the first time, Brisbane Writers Festival comes to the Brisbane Powerhouse, unveiling an exciting new program of over 100 events. Over the week, author talks, conversations, panel discussions and special events will take place, with something for everyone from die-hard bookworms to casual readers. This will be their most ambitious lineup of blockbuster talent in Writers Festival history.
Key characters
More than 200 literary A-listers will take the stage, including some of Australia’s most celebrated voices. World renowned authors Trent Dalton, Helen Garner, Sally Hepworth and Michael Robotham will headline alongside a mix of emerging talent.
Book clubs will find plenty of inspiration with authors such as lare Stephens, Naima Brown, Kimberley Allsopp and Suzanne Do diving into life’s messy chapters. Festival favourite Jana Wendt makes a return, this time with her first work of fiction, while other celebrated writers including Holly Wainwright, Heather Rose, and Debra Oswald bring fresh stories to share.
Hollywood comes to Brisbane
Hollywood insider Griffin Dunne, nephew of Joan Didion, and British-American actress Ione Skye will take the stage to share their stories of star-studded upbringings and iconic film roles.
Romantasy lovers are in for a treat too: meeting bestselling American author Callie Hart. Hart will be joined alongside Australian romantasy writers Stacy McEwan, Jaymin Eve, Sarah A. Parker and Vanessa Len.
Celebrating First Nations voices
At the heart of Brisbane Writers Festival is a commitment to showcasing First Nations storytellers. Guest curators Sharlene Allsop and Jillian Bowie have had a helping hand shaping this years program. Audiences can look forward to panels and conversations featuring authors Anita Heiss, Nardi Simpson and Debra Dank.
For more than 60 years, the Brisbane Writers Festival has brought communities together to share ideas, debate perspectives, and celebrate the wonder of literature. Be a part of the story and join Australia’s oldest running writer’s festival in its exciting new home this October.
What: Brisbane Writers Festival 2025When: 9–12 October 2025Where: Brisbane Powerhouse
