The Asialink Touring Writers Program evolved from the touring Exhibition program, initiated in 2001 by Amanda Lawrence, and running to 2007. It took leading Australian writers for two week tours of China, India, Korea, Japan and Singapore, often focusing on a book fair and including readings at bookshops, universities and schools. Rights were sold, books bought, conversations had and Australian literature’s profile generally raised.

Asialink Touring Writers Program, presentation to three Australian writers; second from left: Tim Winton, Kate Grenville and Peter Goldsworthy, with other official guests, Oberoi Hotel, New Delhi, 2004