Melbourne, City of Literature
Melbourne was designated a UNESCO City of Literature in 2008, becoming Australia’s first UNESCO Creative City and the world’s second City of Literature to receive this recognition. This designation also marked the establishment of the Centre for Books, Writing and Ideas, now The Wheeler Centre for Books, Writing and Ideas.
As a UNESCO City of Literature, Melbourne is part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), a global network of cities that place creativity at the centre of sustainable cultural, social and economic development.
What does this mean?
The City of Literature designation recognises the essential role of books, writing and storytelling in fostering an informed, inclusive and creative society. This connects Melbourne to an international network of cities who are committed to strengthening literary culture and supporting writers, readers and publishers.
Through the UCCN, Melbourne participates in international collaboration, shared initiatives and peer learning, enabling cities to build on their cultural strengths and respond to shared challenges.
The designation as a City of Literature also creates opportunities for Melbourne-based writers to engage internationally through residencies, exchanges and commissioned projects, strengthening connections with literary communities around the world and reducing the barrier of distance.
Sustainable Development Goals
As part of this global network, we strive to support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, a set of 17 goals designed to promote fairness, health and environmental sustainability worldwide.
As a UNESCO City of Literature, Melbourne is committed to upholding freedom of expression, including the freedom to read, write and publish, as fundamental human rights.
The City of Literature Office
As a UNESCO Creative City, Melbourne's City of Literature Office is the official liaison with UNESCO, coordinating reporting, representing Melbourne within the literature network and supporting local initiatives that align with the network’s goals.