Arts philanthropist Kathy Shand has quit as Sydney Writers’ Festival chair just three months before its 2025 event, citing concerns over bias in its programming.
“Artistic freedom and independence are to be guarded and cherished,” wrote Shand, who is Jewish and the eldest daughter of late businessman Larry Adler, in a resignation statement last week to the festival board. She had been a director since 2014 and chair since 2022.
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clarification —
An earlier version of this story included details of 2025’s Sydney Writers Festival program from a media pack, which we have subsequently learned was under embargo until March 13. They have been removed.
Michael Bailey writes on arts and culture, and edits Weekend Fin. He is a former editor of the Financial Review Rich List. He is based in Sydney. Connect with Michael on Twitter. Email Michael at m.bailey@nine.com.au
