Writers Festival // New South Wales
August 2025
Byron Writers Festival: Fragile Democracy
Political upheaval around the world has laid bare the fragility of democratic institutions and the rule of law. Join an esteemed panel featuring Judith Brett (Fearless Beatrice Faust), Julianne Schultz (The Idea of Australia) and Don Watson (High Noon) to diagnose the health of democracy. With Emma Shortis.
Byron Writers Festival: Housing in Crisis
Sky-high rents, a generation fearing they’ll be locked out of the market, and uninsurable towns. The housing crisis and climate change are on a collision course. Join Executive Director of the Australia Institute Richard Denniss and Director of Living Lab Northern Rivers Elizabeth Mossop for an urgent discussion of what can be done to restore
Byron Writers Festival: Trump’d
Get the analysis on Donald Trump’s second presidency with an all-star lineup of political commentators Nick Bryant, Barry Jones, Emma Shortis and Don Watson. Is Australia’s relationship with the USA intact, and what can be done in the face of authoritarianism? With Julianne Schultz.