Rosemarie Milsom by Edwina Richards
A major new chapter is on the cards for Adelaide Writers’ Week, with acclaimed literary figure Rosemarie Milsom officially announced as Director for the 2027 to 2029 festivals.
Appointed by the Adelaide Festival Corporation, Rosemarie steps into one of the most influential roles in Australia’s literary scene, bringing with her decades of experience and a deep connection to writers, readers and the evolving cultural conversation.
Best known as the founding director of the Newcastle Writers Festival, Rosemarie has built a reputation for shaping one of the country’s top literary events. Her appointment shows a continued commitment to thoughtful programming, global perspectives and highlighting local voices on a national and international stage.
“Rosemarie is an outstanding advocate for writers, with a strong understanding of the cultural conversations shaping Australian literature today,” shared Adelaide Festival Chair Judy Potter.
“Her approach aligns perfectly with the spirit of Adelaide Writers’ Week – curious, inclusive and intellectually rigorous. We are thrilled to welcome her and look forward to the vision and energy she will bring to the role. We are confident Rosemarie’s tremendous breadth of knowledge and connection with writers and readers will build on the special place that Adelaide Writers’ Week has locally, nationally and internationally.”
Adelaide Festival Executive Director Julian Hobba added, “We’re delighted to welcome Rosemarie as our new Writers’ Week Director. She brings a clear, compelling and generous vision to the role based in a love of writing and reading that is shared by the Writers’ Week audience. She promises to be an excellent leader within the Adelaide Festival organisation over the coming years.”
Rosemarie says stepping into the role is both an honour and an opportunity to build on a legacy that has long defined Adelaide’s festival season. “I am honoured to join the team and look forward to contributing to its continued evolution,” she said.
Rosemarie brings a wide-ranging background as a journalist, broadcaster and industry leader. She currently sits on the NSW Government’s Literature Board, contributes to the City of Newcastle’s Community and Culture Strategic Advisory Committee, and is part of the Global Association of Literary Festivals steering committee. She has also served as Panel Chair for the Walkley Book Award in both 2023 and 2024.
Rosemarie will officially kick off in the role in mid-May, with her first full program to be unveiled later this year. The 2027 edition of Adelaide Writers’ Week is scheduled to run from February 27th to March 4th, with program details set for release from October 27th.
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