Explore the 2026 Program

Curate Your Festival | Politics

We know that the Festival has a lot of events to choose from so we’ve curated a selection of events to help you decide what to see based on your interests.

We also have multipack discounting available for when you book 4 events, 5 events or 6 or more events. Book all or some of the events in this selection to receive your discount.

For the Politics curated events, we’ve rounded up a selection of events exploring varied perspectives on local and international politics. Whether it’s the state of democracy, global leadership or Australian federal elections, these writers and journalists are working to keep you up to date with the world around you.

Writing in the Age of Trump | Thursday 21 May, 7pm

Join American writers Deborah Baker, S.A. Cosby and Tayari Jones as they share their insights into the state of literature in the current political climate. With Sisonke Msimang. 

Niki Savva: Earthquake | Friday 22 May, 4pm

Hear two of Australia’s most esteemed political analysts, Niki Savva and Barrie Cassidy, discuss Niki’s new book, Earthquake, and dissect the landslide upset for the Liberal/National Party in May 2025.

Jacinda Ardern: A Different Kind of Power | Friday 22 May, 6pm

Join former prime minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern as she shares the story of her deeply personal memoir and unique leadership style, in conversation with Holly Wainwright.

The Future of Democracy: Trump’s America with Jon Sopel

Join journalist and writer Jon Sopel as he considers how to withstand the forces eroding democracies worldwide, in conversation with Nick Bryant and Rosalind Dixon.

Barrie Cassidy and Friends: State of the Nation | Saturday 23 May, 3.15pm

Get the experts’ opinions on the current state of Australian politics with political analyst Barrie Cassidy and friends Waleed Aly, Sean Kelly, Amy Remeikis and Niki Savva.

The World According to Trump | Saturday 23 May, 5.30pm

Political analysis experts Nick Bryant, David Moscrop and Jon Sopel examine Trump’s second term in office and its impact on Australia and the world. With host Amelia Lester.

Whitlam and Howard: Leaders of Consequence | Sunday 24 May, 1pm

Hear journalist and biographer Troy Bramston and political analyst Amy Remeikis articulate the legacies of ex–prime ministers Gough Whitlam and John Howard. With Fran Kelly.

Consider some of the most enduring political legacies of our time or dissect global scandals with these international and Australian perspectives.

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