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Authors Withdraw in Protest Over Festival's Controversial Decision

1/10/2026

40 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Bri Lee and Hannah Kent withdrew from Adelaide Writers’ Week unless Dr. Randa Abdel-Fattah is reinstated after removal.
The festival board cited "cultural sensitivity" following the Bondi attack.
Premier Peter Malinauskas supported the board's decision, stating he could not direct it.
Over 30 authors, including Peter Greste and Zadie Smith, have withdrawn in protest.
A letter from former festival leaders urged the board to reverse its decision.

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Story summary

Bri Lee and Hannah Kent withdrew from Adelaide Writers’ Week unless Dr. Randa Abdel-Fattah is reinstated after removal.
The festival board cited "cultural sensitivity" following the Bondi attack.
Premier Peter Malinauskas supported the board's decision, stating he could not direct it.
Over 30 authors, including Peter Greste and Zadie Smith, have withdrawn in protest.
A letter from former festival leaders urged the board to reverse its decision.