- Brisbane will come to life with a spectacular program of productions, activations, and art installations across September.
- Brisbane Festival includes the show-stopping Riverfire and more than 2,200 talented artists featuring in 1,069 performances.
- The Crisafulli Government's investment in cultural tourism will boost Brisbane Festival and deliver on the state's new 10-year arts and culture strategy – Queensland's Time to Shine.
- After 10 years of decline under Labor, the Crisafulli Government is delivering genuine support for the arts.
Brisbane Festival 2025 will take centre stage throughout September as the city braces for three weeks of exceptional arts experiences, performances, exhibitions and events.
Australia's largest international arts festival kicks off today and runs until 27 September. The Brisbane showcase is expected to attract an audience of roughly 1.8 million locals and visitors.
The festival features 21 world premieres, and four Australian-exclusive events, with the state's creative talent, featuring Queensland artists, arts workers and companies, presented alongside national and international work.
Bold new works include Walk this Way by hometown heroes Craig & Karl, Gems by L.A. Dance Project and Australasian Dance Collective's collaboration with the Netherlands' Club Guy & Roni for Brisbane Festival exclusive Bad Nature.
The Crisafulli Government's $75.8 million Arts Budget lays the foundation for a fresh start with more funding to support local artists and expand access to the arts to all Queenslanders – a key commitment from the new 10-year arts and cultural strategy, Queensland's Time to Shine.
Brisbane Festival delivers on the strategy with nearly half of the 106 productions being offered to the public free of charge, including the show stopping Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust.
After 10 years of decline under Labor, where the former government failed to provide genuine support for the arts while lapping up the red carpet, the Crisafulli Government is delivering a thriving creative sector and vibrant State-wide arts scene.
Minister for the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said Brisbane Festival brought the community together for extraordinary arts experiences and celebrates the State's creative talent.
"The Crisafulli Government is proud to support Brisbane Festival, which is a highlight on our colourful and cultural calendar of events," Minister Langbroek said.
"Brisbane Festival boosts our state's reputation as a creative powerhouse, while generating jobs and opportunities for our talented artists and arts workers.
"Congratulations to the entire Brisbane Festival team and to outgoing Artistic Director Louise Bezzina for assembling an outstanding festival program.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the Crisafulli Government had a laser-like focus on making Queensland the events capital of Australia.
"We know cultural events like the Brisbane Festival are a huge drawcard for visitors, and pump significant money into the local economy," said Minister Powell.
"Tourism operators, and small businesses are the real winners as people come to see the amazing acts on offer."
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said Brisbane Festival showcased colour, culture and creativity across the city and suburbs.
"By bringing extraordinary art into everyday spaces, Brisbane Festival strengthens our standing as Australia's lifestyle capital," Cr Schrinner said.
"Beyond the stage lights, Brisbane Festival fuels jobs, tourism and connection, proving investment in culture is an investment in our city's future.
"Events like this highlight the lifestyle and opportunities Brisbane offers, with more to see and do than ever before."
With a six-year legacy of impressive commissions, partnerships and programs, Louise Bezzina will conclude her role as Artistic Director at the end of this year's Brisbane Festival, with Ebony Bott assuming the role in this role in September to support a transition into the 2026 program.
"This year's festival is a vibrant tribute to Brisbane – its energy, its creativity, and its people," Ms Bezzina said.
"As my final program, I wanted it to reflect the incredible journey we've shared: bold ideas, heartfelt stories, and unforgettable moments.
"From large-scale spectacles to intimate community experiences, every event is rooted in a love for this city.
"I invite everyone to join us this September and be part of something truly special."
