Lifeline Bookfest 2025: Brisbane Bookfest for Everyone!

In this article you will learn about the Brisbane Bookfest including what to expect at the Bookfest, when it is on, and other tips for a successful trip.

The Lifeline Bookfest is a book lover’s heaven. With more second-hand books than you can imagine and so much more, the Brisbane Bookfest is a whole day out that is not to be missed.

Lifeline Bookfest Brisbane 2025 Information

Below you will find the Brisbane Bookfest information for 2025.

When is Lifeline Bookfest?

The Lifeline Bookfest is a long running second-hand book festival held several times a year all over Australia, including in Brisbane. The next Lifeline Bookfest in Brisbane will run from Saturday 18 – Monday 27 January 2025. You can visit at any time during the day that suits you, however, it is advised to visit as early as possible in order to get the greatest selection of millions of quality books.

• Dates: Saturday 18 – Monday 27 January 2025
• Where: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane 
• Cost: Entry is free. Books are from $2.50.

Where is the Lifeline Bookfest held and how can I get there?

The Lifeline Bookfest is always held in the same place in Brisbane: The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (Corner of Merivale and Glenelg Streets in South Brisbane). There are plenty of signs everywhere so it’s easy to find. Entry is free.

Getting there is easy as you have plenty of transport options to choose from. For train travellers, the Exhibition Centre is a ten-minute walk from the South Brisbane Train Station. It is also close to the Cultural Centre Busway for bus travellers. Did you know that kids travel on public transport for free on the weekends?

If you are thinking of driving to the Lifeline Bookfest, BCEC provides undercover parking for up to 1500 vehicles. The car park has direct lift access to the Centre’s multiple convention floors and exhibition facilities. Car parks 2 and 3 are best for Exhibition Halls (Bookfest is located in Halls 3 and 4).

Families tip: You can find parking tips for cheap city parking here.

How much is entry?

The Lifeline Bookfest is free entry for all who attend so you can save your money to spend on books! Books are from $2.50.

What kind of books can you find?

The Lifeline Bookfest will have stacks of $2.50 books and high-quality books, plus a huge variety of puzzles, magazines, CDs and DVDs over nine massive days. Books will be restocked every day, so you won’t miss out. 

There are heaps of different genres to look at, from fiction to science to cooking to philosophy. There are also several huge tables of children’s books. Ranging from old classics to brand new editions and from picture books to young adult novels, there is something for every child. Last Bookfest saw books from authors such as Paul Jennings (Deadly! And Wicked! series), Lemony Snicket (Series of Unfortunate Events), R.L. Stine (Goosebumps series) and Anthony Horrowitz (Alex Rider series).

Despite its very specific name, the Lifeline Bookfest doesn’t just sell books. Among the four kilometres of shelves there are also second-hand board games, comics, DVDs and CDs. It’s the perfect place for families to pick up cheap entertainment for the kids that is also of high quality.

If you are keen to get your kids into reading, start with our ABC Reading Eggs review: click here.

Are there bags provided?

When it comes to carrying your books around the Bookfest, it’s best advised that you bring along either a big sturdy bag or a trolley. As you may find yourself with a huge amount of cheap books, a trolley is probably your best option. Don’t own a trolley? You can borrow one for free! You can also buy a Lifeline bag for $1.

At the end of your book-finding spree, you’ll be pleased to know that the checkout is quick and simple for each section. Cards are preferred, but cash payment is available.

Any other advice?

Wear comfy shoes! With endless rows of tables, you will be spending a few good hours browsing books, DVDs, records, and other items. If you bring the kids along, make sure they have an idea of the books they want. The books at the Bookfest aren’t in any particular order, so you may have to have a good rummage in order to find any specific titles. The best part about Bookfest is discovering new books so your kids may even pick up a few new favourites along the way.

If you’re an avid book reader and you have time to spare, be sure to visit the Lifeline Bookfest. You’ll get some amazing books for both you and the kids at an affordable price.

Looking for something else to do after or before Bookfest?

You’re in the heart of South Bank! Here are some fabulous ideas for low or no-cost activities in South Bank to keep the whole family happy! 

Looking for more family fun? Check out the list of all the family-friendly festivals around Brisbane here.