The Newcastle Writers Festival will celebrate its 14th year in 2026. Since its inaugural event, Newcastle Writers Festival has evolved into a leading Australian literary festival recognised for its support of regional artists, audiences, and arts workers. NWF plays a crucial and distinctive role in the NSW arts ecology by elevating regional artists, creating space for thought-provoking discussions with its public programming, connecting local audiences with Australian and international artists, supporting children’s literacy, and advocating for the literary festival sector.NWF also presents different connection points for audiences to engage in person and online, evoking curiosity and providing innovative pathways for participation. This strengthens the festival’s impact and engagement, providing regional access to high-calibre literary events.The annual three-day April festival includes a program of up to 120 free and ticketed events featuring up to 170 artists. The festival facilitates collaboration and conversation with artist talks, readings, book launches, and performance, as well as art exhibitions. Events are held in multiple accessible venues in Newcastle’s inner city close to public transport. Underpinning all that the festival does is the understanding that storytelling is essential to human experience and a person’s sense of identity. NWFrecognises that regional audiences and artists face challenges that can prevent their participation and we work hard to support access.