The Brisbane Writers Festival has announced its 2026 program, which will take place from October 8 to 11 at the Brisbane Powerhouse. This year's festival will feature more than 200 Australian and international writers, journalists, and thought leaders, offering over 110 events that encompass a wide range of topics including fiction, politics, food, history, memoir, crime, and popular culture.
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Among the notable participants is British author and illustrator Alice Oseman, known for her popular Heartstopper series. Originally a webcomic, Heartstopper has expanded into a bestselling graphic novel series and an Emmy Award-winning Netflix adaptation, which concludes this year with a feature film. Oseman is expected to discuss the impact of her work on queer representation for young readers.
Australian author Liane Moriarty will return to discuss her new book, Big Little Truths, revisiting the world of her earlier novel Big Little Lies more than a decade later. Meg Mason, author of Sorrow and Bliss, will present her upcoming novel, Sophie, Standing There, in a session with novelist Kimberley Asllsopp.
The festival will also host conversations with prominent figures such as Rebecca Kuang, Michael Ondaatje, Kathy Lette, Lisa Wilkinson, Sarah Wilson, Trent Dalton, Richard Fidler, and Mick Herron. These discussions will cover a variety of themes, including politics, memoir, crime fiction, food, wellbeing, and the evolving media landscape, showcasing the diverse intersections of storytelling and contemporary culture.
Attendees can find more information about the program and ticket options, which include single sessions and bundled tickets, through the festival's official website.