NSW Premier Criticises Newcastle Writers Festival Over Author Invitation
NSW Premier Chris Minns has publicly criticised the Newcastle Writers Festival for its decision to include controversial author Randa Abdel-Fattah in this year's program, labelling the move as "crazy". The Premier's comments come amid ongoing debate about free speech and artistic expression in Australia's literary community.
Controversy Surrounds Author's Inclusion
The festival announced on Friday that Dr Randa Abdel-Fattah, a Palestinian-Australian writer, would participate in the Newcastle Writers Festival on March 28. She is scheduled to speak about her book Discipline and participate in a separate panel discussion titled An Unfree World.
This announcement follows recent controversy at the Adelaide Writers' Week, where the board rescinded an invitation to Dr Abdel-Fattah over concerns it could stoke anti-Semitism following the Bondi attack. That decision prompted at least 180 writers to withdraw from the Adelaide event and led to the resignation of festival director Louise Adler in protest.
Premier's Strong Opposition
Speaking on Friday, Premier Minns expressed clear opposition to Dr Abdel-Fattah's inclusion at Newcastle's premier literary event. "I don't know why these organisations do it," Mr Minns stated. "I think they are crazy to invite that author when you think about how divisive it is and how difficult it would be for the organisation as a result of the notoriety."
However, the Premier stopped short of calling for the festival to remove Dr Abdel-Fattah from its programming. "I don't want to get into endless debate about cancellations," he explained. "We're not going to shut down Newcastle. My understanding is the organisers will not withdraw the invitation."
Festival Director Stands Firm
Newcastle Writers Festival director Rosemarie Milsom told the Newcastle Herald that Dr Abdel-Fattah had been booked to attend months before both the Bondi attack and the Adelaide controversy. Ms Milsom confirmed the invitation would not be rescinded despite external pressure.
"We believe artists should be able to speak about their work," Ms Milsom asserted. "To start responding to external pressure is a slippery slope, because who are you going to respond to when you have multiple people or groups coming at you?" Following Mr Minns' remarks on Friday, Ms Milsom declined to comment further.
Local Councillor Expresses Concern
Newcastle Liberal councillor Callum Pull also expressed his frustration with the festival's decision. "I'm pro free speech, period," Cr Pull stated. "My critique is that the board has announced this knowing the controversy that comes with it and the platform it provides. They've had between then and now to change that. Instead, they've dived headfirst into this controversy. It's sad because it will cast a dark shadow over the event."
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions within Australia's cultural sector regarding artistic freedom, political pressure, and community sensitivities. As the Newcastle Writers Festival approaches, organisers face increasing scrutiny over their programming decisions and commitment to free expression.
