BAD is returning in 2026:

Thursday 10 - Saturday 12 September

11 - 13 Sept 2025

BAD SYDNEY

Crime Writers Festival 2025

BAD is back with the best in crime writing by new and bestselling authors, examining critical questions of criminality and justice.

Turn your idea into a book at Lisa Kenway’s writing workshop, learn to craft compelling historical fiction with Michael Burge, venture into the expanding genre of Young Adult fiction or discover how to keep your readers up all night with Candice Fox. Pitch to a publisher and attend our first ever manuscript feedback sessions. 

Explore the former red light district of Elizabeth Street and the notorious crime slums of The Rocks with historian Elliot Lindsay, and go on an adventure in East Sydney and Darlinghurst with Tea Ladies writer Amanda Hampson.

Don’t miss the Danger Awards ceremony, because this popular event comes with a new twist: What are the top ten crime books everyone should read?

BAD has a new venue this year while the State Library is being upgraded. The Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts is only minutes from Town Hall. Grab your BAD bag and fill it at the onsite Abbey’s Bookshop throughout the festival.

BAD Sydney Crime Writers Festival 2023
BAD SYDNEY - BAD Sydney 2025: Sydney Crime Writers Festival Speakers
BAD SYDNEY - BAD Sydney 2025: Sydney Crime Writers Festival Speakers

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