Adelaide

Adelaide, a major city in South Australia, is currently facing a confluence of challenges. The region is experiencing extreme heatwave conditions, with record-breaking temperatures, including its hottest night ever recorded. This has contributed to heightened fire danger, with bushfires burning south of the city, threatening nearby communities and destroying property. Simultaneously, Adelaide is embroiled in controversy surrounding its Writers' Week festival. The initial disinvitation of Palestinian Australian author Randa Abdel-Fattah led to widespread backlash, including author withdrawals, board resignations, and the eventual cancellation of the 2026 festival. Abdel-Fattah has threatened defamation action against the South Australian premier. The situation highlights tensions surrounding freedom of speech, cultural representation, and political influence within the arts community. The extreme weather events underscore the broader impact of climate change on the region.