Banned by Trump, Speaking Truth to Power: John Lyons at the Canberra Writers Festival

If you’ve glanced at the news this week, you’ll know one name is front and centre: John Lyons. The ABC’s global affairs editor found himself banned by Donald Trump after daring to ask what most Aussies would view as a pretty standard question about the President’s business dealings. It’s the perfect illustration of the upcoming Canberra Writers Festival theme speaking truth to power. And it's a timely reminder of why fearless reporting is needed more than ever.

I'm Deputy Chair of the Festival and here's the exciting thing. You can meet John along with Peter Greste and Cheng Lei at one of our most anticipated events. Caught in Conflict will be a conversation that brings together these journalists who've risked everything for the truth.

Moderated by Karen Middleton, the panel will be a rare chance to hear from three people who know better than most what it means to stare down authoritarianism and defend press freedom. Expect frank discussion, gripping personal stories, and behind-the-scenes details of that exchange between John Lyons and Donald Trump.

📅 26 October | 12pm📍 Lowitja O'Donoghue Cultural Centre, Australian National University

🎟️ Book now to secure your seat.

I can honestly say: this will be conversation that reminds us why truth matters, why journalism matters, and why democracy depends on those brave enough to speak out. Don’t miss it.