Volunteer FAQs
Q: Can I volunteer with the Festival?
A: Absolutely! Volunteers are a vital part of Brisbane Writers Festival (BWF). Each year scores of enthusiastic and reliable volunteers are recruited to a wide range of positions to help successfully deliver our annual event.
There are also opportunities to work in our office in the lead up to the festival on a range of tasks and projects.
Please note you must be over 18 years of age to volunteer.
Volunteer applications for the 2025 festival will open in August. Subscribe to our newsletter or follow our Instagram to be among the first to see the callout.
Q. Do I need special skills or qualifications?
A: Some positions do not require specific skills, and some do. In general, BWF volunteers only need:
- A friendly and professional manner
- Punctuality and reliability
- Fluency in English
- A willingness to follow directions and work in a team
- A commitment to making the festival a fantastic experience for the public, festival guests, staff and volunteers
Q: Is there a minimum commitment of hours required to volunteer with Brisbane Writers Festival?
A: We request you complete three rostered BWF shifts in exchange for:
- Discounted or complimentary tickets to festival sessions
- Snacks when on duty
- A Certificate of Participation
We understand some volunteers have parenting or work/study commitments that limit their available hours, and that's fine – just let us know what you can manage.
Q: Can youth (under 18 years) volunteer for Brisbane Writers Festival?
A: Only in special circumstances – please contact info@bwf.org.au to make a request. If approved, please note, young people must be always accompanied by a supervising adult while volunteering.
Q: Do I get free tickets in exchange for my volunteer hours with Brisbane Writers Festival?
A: Yes. Volunteers can use their BWF Volunteer ID to access BWF events if there is room after all patrons are seated.
Q: What are the steps required to become a BWF volunteer?
Once your application is accepted, you will be able to access the rosters to choose your roles and shifts.
Q: Do I need to attend training?
A: Yes. BWF provides a supportive and enjoyable environment for you to learn valuable new skills. All volunteers need to complete the official BWF induction process before they are permitted to work for the festival. The induction will take place at the Brisbane Powerhouse in late September (and online). More details of this induction will be sent to you upon approval of your volunteer application.
Q: Will I need to provide any documentation?
A: Volunteers are required to provide BWF with proof of identity (e.g. Drivers Licence, passport, etc); and any relevant supporting documents e.g., RSA, first aid certificates, current Blue Card etc. as required.
Q: What shall I wear while volunteering?
A: BWF volunteers wear “event blacks”: neat, black, casual shirts and bottoms are required to be worn, along with closed-toe shoes. Please be advised that some positions will require you to work outdoors, so if required, it is recommended you bring a hat.