After two decades of fostering new literary voices and creative workers behind the scenes, the Emerging Writers’ Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary edition, thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Creative Industries Steve Dimpoulos joined the Emerging Writers’ Festival team and a lineup of writers, storytellers and artists last night to open the festival, kicking off an 11-day program with 50 live and digital events featuring over 150 writers and artists.
The Emerging Writers’ Festival is an event for writers and readers with its mix of professional development events as well as performances, readings, talks, screenings and more to connect new and established voices working in writing and storytelling in all its forms.
This year’s program features events and conversations with some of Australia’s leading writers, editors and thinkers, including Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards winner Veronica Gorrie, Stella Prize winner Emily Bitto, acclaimed writer and poet Maxine Beneba Clarke and multi-award winning author Alice Pung OAM.
The festival’s centrepiece event, the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Writers Conference, will be held on 17 June and offers a full program of talks and practical workshops where writers can learn more about editing, researching and connecting to the market.
The festival has been a pivotal event for a generation of writers who have gained advice, skills and networks that have helped shape their careers. It has also nurtured behind-the-scenes creative workers, including festival directors, programmers and producers.
The 20th anniversary Emerging Writers’ Festival runs until 24 June 2023 in venues across Melbourne’s CBD, suburban libraries and venues, and online.
For more information, and for tickets, visit
As stated by Minister for Creative Industries Steve Dimopoulos
“We are proud to back the Emerging Writers Festival as part of our investment in the careers of local writers.”
“Over the last 20 years, the festival has been a launchpad for many of our most exciting literary talents and for a generation of behind-the-scenes creative workers. I can’t wait to see who emerges from this year’s event.”
