Readers across the New England will again have front-row access to one of the country’s biggest literary events, with local venues taking part in the 2026 Sydney Writers’ Festival (SWF) Live & Local program.
Libraries and community venues in Armidale, Inverell, and Glen Innes will host livestreamed sessions from 21 to 24 May, bringing major authors and national conversations directly to the region.
The expanded local line-up reflects growing demand for the program, which aims to bridge the gap between metropolitan festivals and regional audiences.
Sydney Writers’ Festival Artistic Director Ann Mossop said Live & Local had become a key way of connecting communities like those in the New England with the broader literary scene.
“Each year, the program connects readers in regional and remote Australia with some of the most sought-after events in our program, delivered in their local venues,” Mossop said.
Audiences in the region will be able to tune into headline sessions featuring internationally recognised writers including Slow Horses author Mick Herron, Life of Pi novelist Yann Martel and Australian favourite Trent Dalton. Bestselling authors Florence Knapp and Lily King will also appear, alongside children’s author Dav Pilkey, who will host a live drawing session aimed at younger readers.
The four-day program includes discussions on major global issues, from misinformation and artificial intelligence to rising authoritarianism, as well as sessions on storytelling across film, television and literature.
While the festival is based in Sydney, more than 150 venues nationwide will take part this year, underscoring the growing importance of regional access to major cultural events.
For New England audiences, the appeal is straightforward: the chance to experience high-profile festival sessions without the cost and distance of travelling to the city.
Full program details and session times are available at swf.org.au.
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