Melbourne’s literary playground is back. The 2025 Melbourne Writers Festival (MWF) is rolling into town from 8–11 May, bringing with it a packed lineup of literary heavyweights, cultural icons, and fresh voices. Whether you’re into deep-dive conversations, storytelling masterclasses, or just want to bask in the collective bookish energy, this year’s festival has something for everyone.
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The must-sees
It all kicks off with Opening Night: Magical Thinking, a celebration of the stories that shape us, before Michael Cunningham – yes, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Hours – sits down to discuss his latest novel, Day. If you’re in the mood for a little rock-and-roll storytelling, Jimmy Barnes will be sharing tales from the road for Highways and Byways, while Rumaan Alam (of Leave the World Behind fame) explores themes of privilege and identity in Entitlement.
Then there’s Marian Keyes – the queen of contemporary Irish fiction – reflecting on her career in My Favourite Mistake, and Australian favourite Hannah Kent taking on the ever-elusive idea of home in Always Home, Always Homesick.
We'd also recommend not missing Japanese author Asako Yuzuki as she delves into Butter, her novel entwining food, gender, and the joy of indulgence.
Recommended panels and conversations
MWF has lined up some seriously good conversations this year. In Conversation with Anita Heiss will bring her sharp insight into contemporary Indigenous storytelling , while Jamila Rizvi and Rosie Waterland take on mental health in Broken Brains. Over at the masterclasses, Charlotte Wood is leading a session on creative ambition (read: how to write bravely and take risks), and Leslie Jamison is offering a deep dive into personal archives as a storytelling tool.
For those looking to get a little more immersive, there’s the Badass Women of Melbourne Walking Tour, which shines a light on the women who shaped the city. Or, if you’d rather stay put with a cup of tea, join Sarah Wilson for an intimate afternoon tea.
Something for the next-gen
Young readers and aspiring writers aren’t left out – Jessica Townsend (of Nevermoor fame) will be hosting sessions to get imaginations running wild.
How and when to get tickets
Tickets for the 2025 Melbourne Writers Festival can be purchased now online at the Melbourne Writer's Festival website, via email at [email protected], or by phone at (03) 9999 1199 (Monday–Friday, 10am–4pm).
Based in Sydney instead? Here's who you can expect to see at the Sydney Writer's Festival 2025.
