Australia’s largest and only festival dedicated to First Nations writers and storytellers is returning to Naarm this September, with Blak & Bright Writers Festival unveiling the first authors and speakers set to take part in its 2026 program.
Running from 3 to 6 September, this year’s festival is built around the theme EVERY, which explores First Nations understandings of time as continuous, interconnected and relational. Across four days, audiences can expect conversations, storytelling and ideas that challenge conventional notions of the past, present and future while celebrating the richness of First Nations cultures.
The first group of guests already promises a compelling program, bringing together some of Australia’s leading voices across literature, television, sport and the arts. Among those announced are TV presenter and former AFL player Tony Armstrong, acclaimed author Tony Birch, Goorie and Koori poet and editor Evelyn Araluen, novelist and actor Tasma Walton, and youth worker, author and actor Brooke Blurton.
The festival has become an important platform for First Nations writers, illustrators, thinkers and storytellers, creating opportunities to share knowledge, explore identity and examine contemporary social and cultural issues through storytelling.
Artistic Director and CEO Bebe Oliver says the festival continues to highlight the strength and diversity of First Nations voices.
“Storytelling is a powerful act of truth-telling and understanding,” Oliver said. “We’re proud to have assembled a lineup of inimitable writers, illustrators, thinkers and storytellers to celebrate the diversity of First Nations experiences and perspectives across communities and generations.”
Oliver says the first announcement is only the beginning.
“Our first announcement of writers is just a taste of what’s to come. We can’t wait to share more and provide a platform for all Australians to engage with the richness, complexity and power of First Nations storytelling at this year’s festival.”
The full program will be revealed on 23 July, ahead of what promises to be another thought-provoking celebration of storytelling, culture and community in Melbourne. For more information on the 2026 Blak & Bright Writers Festival, visit www.blakandbright.com.au
