Why was Adelaide Writers' Week 2026 cancelled?

The festival was cancelled due to a widespread protest by authors and speakers following the disinvitation of Randa Abdel-Fattah.

Who is Randa Abdel-Fattah and why was she disinvited?

Randa Abdel-Fattah is a Palestinian Australian author who was disinvited by the Adelaide Writers' Week board due to 'cultural sensitivities'.

What was the impact of the disinvitation on Adelaide Writers' Week?

The disinvitation led to over 180 authors withdrawing, the cancellation of the event, and the resignation of the festival board.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Author Disinvitation Sparks Festival Cancellation

Author Disinvitation Sparks Festival Cancellation

13 Jan

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Summary

Adelaide Writers' Week 2026 canceled after author Randa Abdel-Fattah disinvitation.
Over 180 authors and speakers withdrew in protest of the board's decision.
The festival board cited 'cultural sensitivities' but apologized for causing division.

Author Disinvitation Sparks Festival Cancellation

Adelaide Writers' Week 2026 has been cancelled, with the festival board announcing the event would not proceed as scheduled. This decision follows a significant backlash after the board intervened to disinvite Palestinian Australian author Randa Abdel-Fattah, citing 'cultural sensitivities.' The board issued an apology for the division caused by its action.

In response to the disinvitation, more than 180 authors and speakers announced their withdrawal from the festival. The festival board stated this mass exodus made it impossible for the event to continue as planned. The remaining board members, with the exception of the Adelaide city council representative, have resigned.

Festival director Louise Adler also resigned, stating she could not be party to silencing writers. The board expressed deep regret for the distress caused to audiences, artists, staff, and partners, reiterating that the decision was not about identity but a shifting national discourse on freedom of expression.