When does MWF Schools take place?
In 2027, MWF Schools runs from 3–7 May. The Primary Schools Program takes place Monday 3 and Tuesday 4 May. The VCE program for Year 11 and 12 students takes place on Wednesday 5 May. The Secondary Schools Program will take place Thursday 6 May and Friday 7 May.
Who can attend MWF Schools?
All MWF Schools events are restricted to school groups containing school-aged children only, plus an accompanying teacher or supervisor.
As a guide, our program offers events for:
- Primary school students from Years 3 to 6
- Secondary school students from Years 7 to 10
- VCE students in Years 10, 11 and 12 studying or planing to study English, EAL or English Literature Units 1-4
How can I view the program guide?
The MWF Schools digital program guide will be available to view and download in February 2027. The release date will be announced in December 2026.
Sign up to our Schools eNews to receive a sneak peek of the MWF Schools program in December!
Where will MWF Schools take place?
The MWF Schools program will be held at State Library Victoria (328 Swanston Street, Melbourne VIC 3000).
For more information about getting to this venue, visit the State Library Victoria website.
Will there be book signings?
Yes, there will be opportunities for students to have their books signed at the venue.
Signing timetables will be available when tickets go on sale on in February 2027.
Will there be a bookshop at the venue?
Students can purchase books on the day at the pop-up Readings bookstore.
Readings will be accepting card and cash payments across all days.
How do I book tickets to MWF Schools?
Tickets will be available to book online via our website in February 2027. Subscribe to our education e-newsletter to be the first hear when tickets go on sale.
For booking enquiries, please email admin@mwf.com.au.
How much are tickets?
Tickets are $35 per student, with one free teacher ticket per 20 student tickets. When you purchase tickets to attend events between 3–7 May, you are booking to attend the full day of sessions.
All tickets are exempt from GST.
How do I book my complimentary teacher ticket?
You can choose the number of complimentary and paid teacher tickets when using our online booking system.
How do I pay for my booking?
There are two options to secure and pay for your booking:
1. Schools can purchase tickets online using a bank card. This will ensure the booking is secured immediately;
or
2. Schools can reserve tickets online via the booking portal and request to pay via invoice. MWF will issue the invoice to the designated email within three working days. Your booking is not confirmed until payment has been received. Please ensure payment is made by the date on the invoice.
Which schools are eligible to apply for subsidised tickets?
Schools in Victoria that are regional and/or have a published Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage (ICSEA) of less than 1000 are eligible to apply for a limited number of fully subsidised tickets to MWF Schools 2027. Subsidised tickets will be available for Primary, Secondary and VCE programs.
Is travel assistance included in subsidised ticket funding?
For schools travelling from regional areas, additional financial assistance is available to support travel costs, subject to demand. Successful schools will be contacted with further information.
When does the 2027 EOI for subsidised tickets close?
Expressions of interest close 5pm, Friday 19 February. All applicants will be notified no later than Friday 5 March about the outcome.
How can I apply for subsidised tickets?
Simply fill out our MWF Schools 2027 subsidised ticket application form and submit by 5pm, Friday 19 February.
Who can I contact for information about subsidised tickets?
If you have further questions or would like to discuss your school’s needs, please contact our team at admin@mwf.com.au
My students have access requirements. Who can I speak to?
Please inform us at the time of booking of any accessibility requirements. Melbourne Writers Festival has unallocated seating. Please contact us if you require reserved seating to accommodate access needs.
For more information on accessibility or to notify us of any access requirements, please email admin@mwf.com.au.
Is the Festival going to photograph or record my students?
MWF employs the services of a professional photographer and videographer to record events throughout the Festival. These photos and videos are for archival and marketing purposes.
The purchase of a ticket grants implied permission for these photos and videos to be used for the intended purposes.
If you, or any students in your care, do not wish to be photographed or recorded, please inform the photographer or videographer at the venue or speak with a Festival representative on the day.
Where can I access MWF's Child Safety and Risk Assessment Policy?
MWF is committed to the safety of children of all ages, abilities, and cultural backgrounds. Children are vital and active participants in our Festival. We want children to feel safe, happy and empowered. We support and respect all children just as we support our staff and volunteers.
MWF's Child Safety and Risk Assessment Policy has been developed in line with Victoria's Child Safe Standards. You can download a PDF copy here.
You can also view the Schools Safety Statement from MWF Schools partner and venue, State Library Victoria, here.
For any further questions, please email admin@mwf.com.au