The time of year when Australian storytellers, authors and creatives share their experiences and wisdom returns to venues around town this month. The Canberra Writers Festival, 16-20 August, invites writers, journalists and academics to engage with the public.

Exploring the theme of ‘Power, Politics, Passion’, the grand institutions of our nation’s capital provide the perfect backdrop for the festival. More than 120 writers will take part in 74 events across the five jam-packed days, the perfect festival for literary lovers and budding authors alike.

Moderated discussions tackle big issues like voluntary assisted dying, current wars and conflicts, the looming threat of artificial intelligence, and changing political landscapes. Other events focus on creating escapes from the world we know with wild wonderlands, and stories of adventure, vengeance, and empires created by nuns.

After some help to refine your skills or knowledge of storytelling, check out one of the intimate workshops in the Masterclass Series. Experts in the field share tips and tricks for conducting interviews, creating graphics, and writing the perfect memoir, song or story.

If you’re overwhelmed by all the great options then consider Beejay’s Choice, a series of day passes to three sessions in one discounted ticket prize. The new Artistic Director of the festival recommends choosing MoAD if you are interested in political tales or ANU if you love a good story.

Hear voices of ‘Power, Politics and Passion’ at Canberra Writers Festival, 16-20 August; canberrawritersfestival.com.au

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