Code of Conduct

2025 Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival

Code of Conduct – Writers, Presenters and Guests 

At the Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival, we are proud to create a space that celebrates storytelling, creativity, and community. By participating, you contribute to making the Festival a welcoming, respectful, and inspiring event for everyone. 

By accepting your invitation, you agree to the following guidelines. 

  1. Respect & Professionalism
  • Treat fellow writers, artists, festival staff, volunteers, and attendees with kindness, courtesy, and respect. 
  • Discriminatory, offensive, or inappropriate behaviour is not acceptable at any time. 
  • Whether interacting in person, online, or during official festival activities, maintain a professional and respectful approach. 
  1. Punctuality & Participation
  • Please arrive on time for all scheduled events, including rehearsals, sound checks, sessions, and other festival activities. 
  • If you are unable to attend a commitment, notify the festival organisers as early as possible. 
  1. Diversity & Inclusion
  • We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming festival for all. 
  • Discrimination based on race, gender, sexuality, age, ability, religion, or cultural background will not be tolerated. 
  • We value and encourage diverse voices and perspectives. 
  1. Harassment-Free Environment
  • Sexual harassment of any kind is strictly prohibited. This includes unwelcome comments, advances, jokes, gestures, or physical contact. 
  • All participants have the right to feel safe and comfortable. 
  • If you experience or witness harassment, please report it immediately to the festival organisers. Reports will be handled confidentially and with care. 
  1. No Bullying
  • Bullying, intimidation, exclusion, or verbal abuse of any kind is unacceptable. 
  • The festival is a supportive environment for all participants and attendees. 
  • If you witness or experience bullying, please report it to the festival team. 
  1. Safety & Well-being
  • Please follow all safety protocols and instructions provided by the festival team. 
  • Ensure props, equipment, and materials used are safe and do not pose risks to yourself or others. 
  • If you notice any safety concerns, inform festival staff immediately. 
  1. Alcohol & Substance Use
  • Alcohol may be available as part of festival hospitality and should be enjoyed responsibly. 
  • Alcohol consumption should never interfere with events or make others feel uncomfortable. 
  • The use of illegal substances is strictly prohibited during all festival activities, both public and backstage. 
  1. Conflict Resolution
  • Should a conflict arise, we encourage you to address it calmly and respectfully. 
  • If needed, seek assistance from festival organisers to help resolve issues. 
  1. Media & Privacy
  • Please represent the festival professionally when participating in interviews or media activities. 
  • Respect the privacy of fellow writers, performers, and participants. Seek permission before taking or sharing photos, videos, or recordings. 
  1. Breach of Conduct
  • Breaches of this code may result in removal from the festival, including cancellation of scheduled sessions without compensation. 
  • The festival organisers reserve the right to take immediate action when necessary. 

Thank you and we look forward to welcoming you to the Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival