Volunteer applications now open

Applications to volunteer for the 2026 Newcastle Writers Festival are now open.

Volunteers play a crucial role in the presentation of Newcastle Writers Festival. As many as 150 people from all walks of life across the Hunter region and beyond give their time to ensure the festival runs smoothly. There are various roles available and every new and returning volunteer participates in an induction in early March 2026.

We are seeking people who work well in a team, are enthusiastic about assisting our guest writers and audiences, and who are willing to learn. We are always looking for those with leadership qualities and who are willing to take on extra responsibilities.

Applications, rostering and essential communication is managed through the My Impact App, used by the festival team to keep volunteers updated and to equitably share the opportunities for the many interesting events.

There are several roles for volunteers and based on the information in your application, you will be assigned to one of the following (note that some positions will require an interview):

• Usher
• Front of House Assistant
• Event Production Assistant
• Venue Supervisor
• Artist Liaison

What you will gain from volunteering:

• Experience working in large teams
• Experience working on a major event
• Development of customer service skills
• Development of communication skills and time management
• Experience working with industry professionals
• Experience in risk management

Key requirements:

• Applicants must be over the age of 18
• Have an interest in the arts and/or events
• Have flexible availability during the festival weekend
• Be able to commit to a minimum of 4 hours
• Be punctual and reliable
• Attend a compulsory online or in-person induction prior to the festival
• Supply a valid Working with Children Check number, or capacity to acquire this free certification before the commencement of the 2026 festival.

Volunteer Role Descriptions

Usher
One of the most publicly visible roles, ushers ensure sessions run as smoothly as possible for writers, hosts and audiences. They assist with directing audience members to their seats, answering any questions, and updating stage requirements (fresh water for speakers, etc). Ushers are also responsible for maintaining a safe and clean environment for guests.

Front of House Assistant
As a Front of House Assistant, your role will involve assisting with event setup, followed by Front of House duties as audiences? arrive. You will represent the festival and be the first point of contact for attendees. At the beginning of each shift, you will receive a briefing on your responsibilities.

Duties within this team include:

• Front of house venue set up
• Assist guests with accessibility, find their way to and around venues and their seats
• Assist with signing tables and crowd management
• Information tables (knowledge of the festival venues and local area important)
• Conducting surveys with our attendees
• Support in keeping event areas clean and eliminate hazards
• Assist with ushering and ticketing

Event Production Assistant
Event Production Assistants hold a vital position within the behind-the-scenes team at the festival. They help with event set-up and support all the behind-the-scenes activities associated with the event.

Duties within this team include:

• Venue set-up
• Back of house area set-up
• Float/gofer (assisting Supervisors, Volunteer Coordinator and other key event staff throughout the festival)
• Technical assistance
• Volunteer Room aide
• Keeping event areas clean and hazard-free

Artist Liaison
Artist Liaison assists the Green Room Supervisor and Artist Logistics Manager to ensure guest writers are cared for, including replenishing food and drinks, and escorting them to venues. This role requires a minimum of two years’ experience volunteering with NWF.

Venue Supervisor
Supervisors oversee venues, liaise with staff, and handle any volunteer questions. They assist with the smooth running of sessions, address audience/writer concerns and needs, and support volunteers when required. The Venue Supervisor is also responsible for risk management in the venue. This role requires a minimum of three years’ experience volunteering with NWF.

How to Apply

• CLICK HERE to read instructions about how to apply
• Once you are ready to apply click the button below or scan the QR code

Applications close at 11.59pm on 20 February 2026.

If you have any questions, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Nerida Walker at: volunteers(at)newcastlewritersfestival.org.au