Brisbane Writers Festival has unveiled its 2026 program, bringing together more than 200 Australian and international writers, journalists and thought leaders for four days of conversations at Brisbane Powerhouse from 8–11 October. With more than 110 events spanning fiction, politics, food, history, memoir, crime and popular culture, this year's festival offers plenty beyond the traditional author talk.

Who is on the Brisbane Writers Festival lineup?

Leading the international line-up is Alice Oseman, the British author and illustrator whose Heartstopper series has reached mammoth popularity levels in recent years. What began as a webcomic has since evolved into a bestselling graphic novel series and an Emmy Award-winning Netflix adaptation, which wraps up this year with a feature film. Oseman is on board to reflect on the enduring appeal of Nick and Charlie's story, and the role the series has played in expanding queer representation for young readers.

Another headline event comes from Australian favourite Liane Moriarty, who returns with Big Little Truths, which is set to revisit the world of Big Little Lies more than a decade after the novel was set.

Meg Mason, the author behind Sorrow and Bliss, is also back with her next novel, Sophie, Standing There. She'll be discussing her new work in conversation with novelist Kimberley Asllsopp.

As for the festival's broader program, readers can expect conversations with acclaimed novelists, journalists and cultural commentators including Rebecca Kuang, Michael Ondaatje, Kathy Lette, Lisa Wilkinson, Sarah Wilson, Trent Dalton, Richard Fidler and Mick Herron. They'll explore everything from politics and current affairs to memoir, crime fiction, food, wellbeing and the changing media landscape, highlighting the many ways storytelling intersects with contemporary culture.

You can view the program in full online.

How to get tickets

There are various ticketing options available, including single-sessions and bundles. You can find more ticketing information here.