Australian film festivals, sorted by what's next

71 festivals and their submission windows, from the major international festivals to short film, genre and identity-focused events. Every listing links straight to the festival's official website and submission page.

Submission calendar (71)

├─┤ Submissions ▬ Festival ┄ Approximate / recurring dates │ Today: 2026-11-09
Next festival edition and its preceding submission window; closed windows stay visible. Dashed boxes show possible months, not confirmed days. Scroll for all festivals and months; hover a row for dates.

Submission windows and festival dates for the current filters
Festival
Bauhaus Bendigo Short Film Festival
FOA
Made in the West Film Festival
MQFF
MFF
SF3
CCFF
TOFF
NiSFF
Understory Film Festival
MUFF
Trop Jr
CFF
PFF
FLiCKERFEST
Antenna
FFF
AIFF
Tropfest
MGFF
WAMFF
BFF
LCA
PQFF
GIFF
NIFFA
MWFF
Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s Funny Shorts
SWIFF / Nextwave
Over The Fence
SWIFF
GPFF
FFFA
GCFF
MNFF
WEFF
SKFF
SFF
Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival
MDFF
Rev
AUYFF
CinefestOZ
FSFF
NISFF
QSFF
MIFF
SLSFF
SFC
SCINEMA International Science Film Festival
AWFF
Heart of Gold
RTBFF
SUFF
UDFF
Weindorfer Short Film Festival
VSFF
DIFF
AIFF
CSFF
Dark Nights Film Fest
EFFA
Fraser Shorts Film Festival
Monster Fest
Port Shorts Film Festival
STUFFit Student Film Festival
AFIN
SSFFF
AFF
BBFF
Cinematic Horror Film Festival

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Includes festival dates for all current matches. Approximate dates cover the possible months and are marked tentative. This is a one-time import; changes here will not sync automatically.

Festival type All Major Short film Genre, identity & specialised

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State / territory NSW (22) VIC (20) QLD (16) WA (7) SA (4) TAS (3) ACT (5) NT (2)

Accepts Features (36) Shorts (70) Documentaries (55) Animation (45) Series & web series (14) Music videos (19) VR / XR (7) Screenplays (7)

Focus Genre (sci-fi, fantasy, cult) (11) Horror (7) Comedy (1) Science (2) Documentary (3) Experimental & underground (9) Independent cinema (30) LGBTQIA+ (7) Women & gender-diverse (3) First Nations (8) Disability (3) Multicultural & diaspora (2) Regional filmmakers (18) Local / state-made (15) Youth & students (18) Smartphone filmmaking (4) Surf & environment (5) Uplifting stories (4)

Awards & qualifying Academy Award® qualifying (4) BAFTA qualifying (2) AACTA qualifying (3) Cash prizes (44)

Premiere rules Premiere required (17) Premiere preferred (9) No premiere requirement (25)

Entry fees Free entry (14) Fee waivers available (8) Student rates (34)

Submit via FilmFreeway (65) Festhome (3) Festival website (8)

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71 festivals · sorted by next festival date

Bauhaus Bendigo Short Film Festival
Genre, identity & specialised

Bauhaus Bendigo Short Film Festival

Bendigo, VIC · La Trobe Art Institute and Hargreaves Mall Civic Screen
On now

Entries open Apr 2027

Festival
8–15 Nov 2026

Entries
Opens Apr · Closing dates conflict between Sept and Oct

Fees
$10–$50 across student and standard categories; currency unconfirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

International shorts exploring Bauhaus design, architecture and experimental film, with a Greater Bendigo residents' category. Selected films screen at a launch event and on the outdoor civic screen. Films must be suitable for a general audience.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Experimental & underground
- Local / state-made
Details for Bauhaus Bendigo Short Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
FOA
Genre, identity & specialised

Focus on Ability Short Film Festival (FOA)

Chatswood, Sydney, NSW · The Concourse
This month

Entries open Feb 2027

Festival
October / November

Entries
Opens Feb · Closes Jul

Fees
Free entry

Submit via
Direct portal (festival website)

International short film festival organised by NOVA Employment celebrating the achievements and abilities of people with disability. Free to enter for films up to 5 minutes across school, open, and international short film and documentary categories, competing for substantial cash and mentoring prizes alongside online public voting.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Disability
- Youth & students
- Uplifting stories
- Cash prizes
Details for Focus on Ability Short Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Made in the West Film Festival
Short film

Made in the West Film Festival

Liverpool, NSW · Event Cinemas Liverpool
This month

Entries open Mar 2027

Festival
November

Entries
Opens Mar · Closes early Oct

Fees
$35–$50 AUD (early bird to late round)

Submit via
Direct portal (festival website)

Western Sydney's flagship short film festival, screening finalists at Event Cinemas Liverpool. Films must be under 30 minutes and have cast, crew or locations from Western Sydney.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Series & web series
- Music videos
- Regional filmmakers
- Local / state-made
- Cash prizes
Details for Made in the West Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
MQFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Melbourne Queer Film Festival (MQFF)

Melbourne, VIC · ACMI & Village Jam Factory
This month

Entries open May 2027

Festival
November

Entries
Opens May · Closes early Aug

Fees
Free for Australian entrants (waiver code by email); fees apply to international entries

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Australia's oldest and largest LGBTQIA+ film festival, screening more than 140 features, shorts and documentaries across Melbourne. Entry is free for Australian filmmakers.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- LGBTQIA+
- Cash prizes
Details for Melbourne Queer Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
MFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Multicultural Film Festival (MFF)

Melbourne, VIC
This month

Submission dates TBC

Festival
June premiere · Tour to Nov · Online season from Nov

Entries
Current entries closed · Next window TBC

Fees
Free

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Short films exploring multiculturalism, cultural diversity and social cohesion, with Victorian, national and international eligibility varying by award. Includes fiction, documentary, animation and music video. The 2026 program premiered at ACMI, tours Victoria and has an SBS On Demand season.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Music videos
- Multicultural & diaspora
- Cash prizes
Details for Multicultural Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
SF3
Genre, identity & specialised

SmartFone Flick Fest (SF3)

Sydney, NSW · Sydney Opera House
This month

Open for entries · closes 1 Sep 2027

Festival
October / November

Entries
Opens Nov · Closes early Sep

Fees
SF3 Kids Free · Shorts $25–$40 AUD · Features $40–$60 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Australia's international smartphone film festival dedicated to films shot entirely on mobile phones and tablets. Features competitions for Gala Shorts (under 20 mins), Feature Films, SF3 Kids, and SF3 Mini.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Youth & students
- Smartphone filmmaking
- Cash prizes
Details for SmartFone Flick Fest Submit (external site) Website (external site)
CCFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Central Coast Film Festival (CCFF)

Ettalong Beach, NSW · Cinema Paradiso
Next: 14 Nov 2026 (in 5 days)

Entries open Mar 2027

Festival
14–21 Nov 2026

Entries
Opens Mar · Closes early Sept

Fees
$10–$115 AUD across categories · Student and local rates available

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Australian and international features, mid-length films and shorts, with documentary, animation, music video and experimental categories. Dedicated categories recognise Central Coast productions, students, under-18 filmmakers and First Nations work.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Music videos
- Experimental & underground
- First Nations
- Local / state-made
- Youth & students
Details for Central Coast Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
TOFF
Genre, identity & specialised

The Other Film Festival (TOFF)

Melbourne, VIC
Next: 19 Nov 2026 (in 10 days)

Submission dates TBC

Festival
19 Nov–6 Dec 2026

Entries
No current open call

Fees
Not applicable to current curated program

Submit via
Curated program (no current open call)

Disability-led international film festival run by Arts Access Victoria, centring Deaf and Disabled filmmakers and stories. The 2026 artistic program includes online screenings through ACMI Cinema 3 and events within Alter State.
- Disability
Details for The Other Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
NiSFF
Short film

Newcastle International Short Film Festival (NiSFF)

Newcastle, NSW · The Royal Exchange Hybrid Performance Space & Cinema
Next: 20 Nov 2026 (in 11 days)

Closing soon · entries close 10 Nov

Festival
November

Entries
Opens Dec · Closes early Nov

Fees
~$7–$24 AUD ($6–$22 student)

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Short film festival held at The Royal Exchange in Newcastle celebrating Australian, regional NSW, and international short films up to 20 minutes across drama, comedy, horror, sci-fi, documentary, animation, and phone films. Newcastle premiere status strictly required.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Genre (sci-fi, fantasy, cult)
- Experimental & underground
- Independent cinema
- Regional filmmakers
- Smartphone filmmaking
Details for Newcastle International Short Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Understory Film Festival
Short film

Understory Film Festival

Cairns, QLD · Tank 5, Tanks Arts Centre
Next: 21 Nov 2026 (in 12 days)

Entries open Jun 2027

Festival
21 Nov 2026

Entries
Opens June · Closes Oct

Fees
Free

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Short films by North and Far North Queensland filmmakers, including residents from Townsville through Cape York, the Gulf and Torres Strait Islands. Accepts documentary, animation, drama, experimental work and music videos; Best Film and People's Choice each receive a $2,500 cash prize.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Music videos
- Regional filmmakers
- Local / state-made
- Cash prizes
Details for Understory Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
MUFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Melbourne Underground Film Festival (MUFF)

Melbourne, VIC
Next: 26 Nov 2026 (in 17 days)

Entries open Dec

Festival
November

Entries
Opens Dec · Closes late Oct

Fees
~$35–$55 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Long-running independent festival showcasing cutting-edge, cult, experimental, transgressive, and alternative Australian and international cinema across feature, short, and documentary formats. Submissions via FilmFreeway with no premiere requirement; selected films are bound by an irrevocable screening agreement.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Genre (sci-fi, fantasy, cult)
- Horror
- Experimental & underground
- Independent cinema
Details for Melbourne Underground Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Trop Jr
Short film

Trop Jr

Melbourne, VIC · The Astor
Next: 4 Dec 2026 (in 25 days)

Entries open Aug 2027

Festival
4 Dec 2026

Entries
Opens Aug · Closes Oct

Fees
Free

Submit via
Direct portal (festival website)

Australian short film festival for filmmakers aged 15 and under. The 2026 signature item is MAP, and the Melbourne grand final is invitation only.
- Shorts
- Youth & students
Details for Trop Jr Submit (external site) Website (external site)
CFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Capricorn Film Festival (CFF)

Yeppoon, QLD · Yeppoon Town Hall
Next: Jan 2027 (in 2 months)

Entries open Feb 2027

Festival
January

Entries
Opens Feb · Closes early Nov

Fees
Shorts $10–$30 AUD · Features $50–$65 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Central Queensland festival screening features, documentaries, shorts (under 30 min), and experimental video art. Offers over $4,000 AUD in cash prizes across world-open and dedicated Central Queensland (CQ) categories. No premiere required for short films.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Music videos
- Experimental & underground
- Independent cinema
- Regional filmmakers
- Cash prizes
Details for Capricorn Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
PFF
Short film

Peninsula Film Festival (PFF)

Rosebud, VIC · Rosebud Village Green
Next: 8 Jan 2027 (in 2 months)

Closing soon · entries close 4 Dec

Festival
January

Entries
Opens Feb · Closes early Dec

Fees
$25 AUD standard ($15 Emerging Filmmaker Award)

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Iconic outdoor short film festival on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula, judged live by a panel of celebrity judges with up to $30K in cash and prizes.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Independent cinema
- Regional filmmakers
- Youth & students
- Cash prizes
Details for Peninsula Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
FLiCKERFEST
Short film

Flickerfest (FLiCKERFEST)

Bondi Beach, Sydney, NSW · Bondi Pavilion
Next: 22 Jan 2027 (in 2 months)

Entries open Jun 2027

Festival
January

Entries
Opens Jun · Closes mid-Oct

Fees
~$17–$60 AUD (Specsavers TVC ad competition free)

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Australia's leading Academy Award® and BAFTA qualifying international short film festival, staged at Bondi Pavilion on Bondi Beach. Requires Australian premieres for competitive shorts up to 35 minutes.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Independent cinema
- Youth & students
- Academy Award® qualifying
- BAFTA qualifying
- Cash prizes
Details for Flickerfest Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Antenna
Genre, identity & specialised

Antenna Documentary Film Festival (Antenna)

Sydney, NSW
Next: 4 Feb 2027 (in 3 months)

Entries open Apr 2027

Festival
February

Entries
Opens Apr · Closes late Oct

Fees
Shorts $15–$30 USD · Features $25–$30 USD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Creative non-fiction from Australia and around the world. Feature documentaries (60 min or longer) compete for a $10,000 cash prize; Australian short documentaries (30 min or less) compete for $5,000. Sydney premiere required.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Documentary
- Cash prizes
Details for Antenna Documentary Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
FFF
Short film

Fleurieu Film Festival (FFF)

McLaren Vale, SA · McLaren Vale Visitor Centre
Next: 6 Feb 2027 (in 3 months)

Closing soon · entries close 1 Dec

Festival
February

Entries
Opens Jun · Closes early Dec

Fees
$20–$35 AUD ($28–$33 student)

Submit via
FilmFreeway

South Australia's premier outdoor short film festival held in the McLaren Vale wine region. Screens short fiction and documentaries with cash prizes and awards across Australian and international categories. Max 15 minutes.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Independent cinema
- Regional filmmakers
- Cash prizes
Details for Fleurieu Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
AIFF
Short film

Australia Independent Film Festival (AIFF)

Brisbane, QLD · Palace Cinemas James Street
Next: 12 Feb 2027 (in 3 months)

Entries open Feb 2027

Festival
February

Entries
Opens Feb · Closes mid-Sep

Fees
~$25–$50 AUD depending on category

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Brisbane-based celebration of exceptional independent cinema from Queensland, Australia, and internationally. Features narrative shorts, documentaries, student films, and screenplays with no strict premiere restrictions.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Screenplays
- Independent cinema
- Cash prizes
Details for Australia Independent Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Tropfest
Short film

Tropfest

Sydney, NSW · The Domain
Next: 13 Feb 2027 (in 3 months)

Entries open Dec

Festival
13 Feb 2027

Entries
Opens Dec · Closes early Jan

Fees
$65 early bird · $95 standard; currency unconfirmed

Submit via
Direct portal (festival website)

Short films including titles and credits, incorporating the 2027 signature item NECKLACE. Competition directors must be Australian citizens or permanent residents; international filmmakers may screen out of competition. World premiere required, with finalist exclusivity until 31 March 2027.
- Shorts
- Cash prizes
Details for Tropfest Submit (external site) Website (external site)
MGFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Mardi Gras Film Festival (MGFF)

Sydney, NSW · Event Cinemas George St & Dendy Newtown
Next: 18 Feb 2027 (in 3 months)

Closing soon · entries close 8 Dec

Festival
February / March

Entries
Opens mid-Sep · Closes early Dec

Fees
Shorts $30–$40 AUD · Features $50–$60 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Organised by Queer Screen, MGFF is one of the world's largest LGBTQIA+ film festivals. Home of the 'My Queer Career' Australian short film competition with over $16,000 AUD in prizes and no Sydney premiere requirement.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Series & web series
- LGBTQIA+
- Cash prizes
Details for Mardi Gras Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
WAMFF
Genre, identity & specialised

WA Made Film Festival (WAMFF)

Perth, WA · Palace Cinemas Raine Square
Next: 18 Feb 2027 (in 3 months)

Closing soon · entries close 1 Dec

Festival
February

Entries
Opens Aug · Closes early Dec

Fees
Shorts $15 AUD · Long Shorts $25 AUD · Features $35 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Western Australia's largest celebration of exclusively WA-made screen content, showcasing features, documentaries, shorts, web series, and the 'Get Smart!' smartphone film competition.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Series & web series
- Local / state-made
- Youth & students
- Smartphone filmmaking
- Cash prizes
Details for WA Made Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
BFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Birrarangga Film Festival (BFF)

Melbourne, VIC · RMIT - The Capitol
Next: 25 Feb 2027 (in 3 months)

Entries open Jul 2027

Festival
Feb / Mar

Entries
Opens Jul · Closes late Oct

Fees
Free to $10 AUD (Shorts) · $10–$25 AUD (Features)

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Australia's premier Indigenous-led biennial film festival celebrating First Nations storytelling through cinema. Features, documentaries, shorts, animations, and VR/XR works, requiring the director or writer/producer to be Indigenous. No premiere status required.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- VR / XR
- Independent cinema
- First Nations
Details for Birrarangga Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
LCA
Short film

Lights! Canberra! Action! (LCA)

Canberra, ACT · Senate Rose Gardens, Old Parliament House
Next: Mar 2027 (in 4 months)

Entries open Feb 2027

Festival
March

Entries
Opens Feb · Closes early Mar

Fees
$22 student/under-18/inclusive teams · $33 general; currency unconfirmed

Submit via
Direct portal (festival website)

Ten-day filmmaking challenge using an announced theme and Canberra items or locations, followed by a public gala screening. Films can run up to seven minutes including credits. Student, under-18 and disability-inclusive team categories have reduced entry rates.
- Shorts
- Animation
- Disability
- Local / state-made
- Youth & students
Details for Lights! Canberra! Action! Submit (external site) Website (external site)
PQFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Perth Queer Film Festival (PQFF)

West Perth, WA · The Backlot Studios
Next: 3 Mar 2027 (in 4 months)

Open for entries · closes 18 Dec

Festival
3–10 Mar 2027

Entries
Opens Aug · Closes Dec

Fees
$5 early/regular · $10 late; currency unconfirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Features, shorts and documentaries with significant LGBTQIA+ content. The festival presents audience and jury awards; DCP delivery is preferred but other formats can be considered.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- LGBTQIA+
Details for Perth Queer Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
GIFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Gippsland International Film Festival (GIFF)

Warragul / Gippsland, VIC · West Gippsland Arts Centre, Peninsula Cinemas Warragul and regional halls
Next: 12 Mar 2027 (in 4 months)

Open for entries · closes 13 Jan 2027

Festival
12–19 Mar 2027

Entries
Opens Mar · Closes Jan

Fees
Paid categories vary · GIFF x Spark youth category free; paid-fee currency unconfirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

International and Australian shorts, including regional and Gippsland categories, with features considered by arrangement. Previously screened and publicly available films can be considered without a premiere requirement. Student rates and a free local youth category are available.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Regional filmmakers
- Local / state-made
Details for Gippsland International Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
NIFFA
Genre, identity & specialised

National Indian Film Festival of Australia (NIFFA)

Sydney, NSW
Next: 17 Mar 2027 (in 4 months)

Open for entries · closes 10 Jan 2027

Festival
17 Mar–27 June 2027 · National circuit

Entries
Opens Oct · Closes Jan

Fees
Shorts $35–$75 · Features $50–$115 · Student rates available; currency unconfirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

National festival accepting features, documentaries and shorts connected to India, the Indian diaspora or Indo-Australian culture. Australian premiere required, and competition films must not be publicly available online. The 2027 circuit includes Sydney, regional NSW and other Australian capitals and regional centres.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Multicultural & diaspora
Details for National Indian Film Festival of Australia Submit (external site) Website (external site)
MWFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Melbourne Women in Film Festival (MWFF)

Melbourne, VIC · ACMI
Next: 18 Mar 2027 (in 4 months)

Entries open May 2027

Festival
March

Entries
Opens May · Closes early Oct

Fees
$20–$55 AUD depending on category and tier (waivers for First Nations & diverse creators)

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Short films (up to 20 min including credits) and web series with a woman or gender-diverse filmmaker in a key creative role, from Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand and Moana Oceania. Narrative, documentary, animation, music video and experimental work; no features. Generative AI banned.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Series & web series
- Music videos
- Independent cinema
- Women & gender-diverse
- Cash prizes
Details for Melbourne Women in Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s Funny Shorts
Short film

Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s Funny Shorts

Melbourne, VIC · ACMI
Next: Apr 2027 (in 5 months)

Open for entries · closes 5 Feb 2027

Festival
April 2027 · Screening dates TBC

Entries
Opens Nov · Closes early Feb

Fees
$15 AUD in FAQ · Payment currency conflicts with entry conditions

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Comedy shorts strictly under 10 minutes, including credits, screening at ACMI. Entry conditions require filmmakers to be over 18 and Australian citizens or permanent residents. Previously premiered films may enter, subject to a public-availability blackout through 18 April 2027; winner and audience prizes are offered.
- Shorts
- Comedy
- Cash prizes
Details for Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s Funny Shorts Submit (external site) Website (external site)
SWIFF / Nextwave
Genre, identity & specialised

Screenwave / Nextwave Youth Film Fest (SWIFF / Nextwave)

Coffs Harbour, NSW · CHEC Theatre
Next: Apr 2027 (in 5 months)

Entries open Jun 2027

Festival
April

Entries
Opens mid-year · Closes late Oct

Fees
Free entry for Australian youth (ages 10–25)

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Presented by SWIFF (Screenwave International Film Festival), Nextwave is Australia's largest regional youth short film festival open to filmmakers aged 10-25 with films up to 5 minutes.
- Shorts
- Regional filmmakers
- Youth & students
- Cash prizes
Details for Screenwave / Nextwave Youth Film Fest Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Over The Fence
Genre, identity & specialised

Over The Fence Comedy Film Festival (Over The Fence)

Fremantle, WA
Next: 9 Apr 2027 (in 5 months)

Open for entries · closes 20 Dec

Festival
April

Entries
Open by Nov · Closes late Dec

Fees
Shorts under 15m $28–$45 AUD · Shorts 16–40m $35–$52 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Grassroots comedy short film festival from Fremantle that launches each year and then tours venues around Australia. Comedy and dark comedy shorts up to 40 minutes.
- Shorts
- Animation
- Genre (sci-fi, fantasy, cult)
- Cash prizes
Details for Over The Fence Comedy Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
SWIFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Sydney Women’s International Film Festival (SWIFF)

Sydney, NSW · Palace Cinemas Moore Park
Next: 11 Apr 2027 (in 5 months)

Closing soon · entries close 30 Nov

Festival
11–17 Apr 2027

Entries
Opens Jan · Closes Nov

Fees
Shorts/music videos $37–$105 · Features $100–$200 · Other categories vary; currency unconfirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Features, shorts, documentaries, animation, music videos, web series and screenplays supporting women and non-binary filmmakers. Film entries require both an eligible key creative and protagonist. NSW cinematic release and online availability restrictions apply, with exceptions for web series and music videos.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Series & web series
- Music videos
- Screenplays
- Women & gender-diverse
- Smartphone filmmaking
Details for Sydney Women’s International Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
GPFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Geelong Pride Film Festival (GPFF)

Geelong, VIC · Pivotonian Cinema
Next: 15 Apr 2027 (in 5 months)

Open for entries · closes 29 Jan 2027

Festival
April

Entries
Opens Aug · Closes late Jan

Fees
Shorts $15–$25 AUD · Features $25–$40 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Regional Victoria's premier LGBTQIA+ film festival celebrating queer cinema from Australia and around the world. Accepts narrative features, shorts, documentaries, animation, and web series.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Series & web series
- LGBTQIA+
- Regional filmmakers
- Cash prizes
Details for Geelong Pride Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
FFFA
Genre, identity & specialised

Fantastic Film Festival Australia (FFFA)

Melbourne, VIC & Sydney, NSW · Lido Cinemas & Ritz Cinemas
Next: 23 Apr 2027 (in 5 months)

Open for entries · closes 31 Jan 2027

Festival
April / May

Entries
Opens late Sep · Closes late Jan

Fees
$30–$60 AUD depending on tier and category

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Genre festival for sci-fi, horror, fantasy and boundary-pushing cinema, screening at Lido Cinemas (Melbourne) and Ritz Cinemas (Sydney). Australian features compete for the $10,000 Fantastic Film Prize, presented with Umbrella Entertainment. VIC and NSW premieres required for features.
- Features
- Shorts
- Animation
- Genre (sci-fi, fantasy, cult)
- Horror
- Cash prizes
Details for Fantastic Film Festival Australia Submit (external site) Website (external site)
GCFF
Major

Gold Coast Film Festival (GCFF)

Gold Coast, QLD · HOTA (Home of the Arts)
Next: 28 Apr 2027 (in 5 months)

Open for entries · closes 22 Jan 2027

Festival
April / May

Entries
Opens mid-Aug · Closes late Jan

Fees
Scripts & Web Series $20–$40 AUD · Shorts & Features $40–$70 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Queensland festival held at HOTA celebrating features, SIPFEST short films, web series, and screenplays. Queensland premiere strictly required for feature and short film competition entries. AACTA Award-qualifying for features.
- Features
- Shorts
- Series & web series
- Screenplays
- Independent cinema
- AACTA qualifying
- Cash prizes
Details for Gold Coast Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
MNFF
Short film

Melbourne Nocturnal Film Festival (MNFF)

Collingwood, Melbourne, VIC · Eclipse Cinema
Next: 1 May 2027 (in 6 months)

Open for entries · closes 31 Mar 2027

Festival
1–2 May 2027

Entries
Opens Aug · Closes Mar

Fees
$16–$40 standard entries · First Nations waivers; currency unconfirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Australian-made narrative, documentary, animated and experimental shorts with an offbeat emphasis. Films must be strictly under 30 minutes. Premiere status is preferred but not required, and First Nations filmmakers can request a fee waiver.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Experimental & underground
- Local / state-made
Details for Melbourne Nocturnal Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
WEFF
Short film

West End Film Festival (WEFF)

West End, Brisbane, QLD · SAE Brisbane
Next: Jun 2027 (in 7 months)

Entries open Feb 2027

Festival
June

Entries
Opens Feb · Closes May

Fees
Fee schedule not confirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Australian short films across genres, including documentary and experimental work. Films must be strictly under 20 minutes and either South-East Queensland-made or Australian productions. Older films can screen, although award eligibility has a more recent completion requirement.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Independent cinema
- Local / state-made
Details for West End Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
SKFF
Short film

St Kilda Film Festival (SKFF)

St Kilda, Melbourne, VIC · The Astor Theatre & Alex Theatre
Next: 3 Jun 2027 (in 7 months)

Open for entries · closes 15 Jan 2027

Festival
June

Entries
Opens Sep · Closes mid-Jan

Fees
Top Shorts ~$35–$60 AUD · Free for Under the Radar (youth)

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Australia's longest-running short film festival, produced by the City of Port Phillip and accredited by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (Oscar® qualifying). Showcases Australia's Top Short Films competition. Victorian premiere required.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Music videos
- Independent cinema
- Youth & students
- Academy Award® qualifying
- AACTA qualifying
- Cash prizes
Details for St Kilda Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
SFF
Major

Sydney Film Festival (SFF)

Sydney, NSW · State Theatre & Dendy Newtown
Next: 9 Jun 2027 (in 7 months)

Open for entries · closes 26 Feb 2027

Festival
June

Entries
Opens Oct · Closes late Feb

Fees
~$45 AUD flat fee (free for First Nations & Screenability)

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Features, documentaries and shorts (under 40 min). NSW premiere strictly required for features. Home of the Academy-qualifying Dendy Awards, Sustainable Future Award, and the $20,000 Documentary Australia Award.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Independent cinema
- First Nations
- Academy Award® qualifying
- Cash prizes
Details for Sydney Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival
Genre, identity & specialised

Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival

Winton, QLD · Royal Open Air Theatre
Next: 25 Jun 2027 (in 7 months)

Open for entries · closes 1 Jun 2027

Festival
25 June–3 July 2027

Entries
Opens Aug · Closes early June

Fees
Shorts $25–$60 · Features $35–$100 · Student rates available; currency unconfirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Australian independent features, documentaries and shorts screened in outback Queensland. Short-film entries are limited to 10 minutes; feature-length work is also accepted.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Independent cinema
- Regional filmmakers
Details for Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
MDFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Melbourne Documentary Film Festival (MDFF)

Melbourne, VIC · Cinema Nova
Next: Jul 2027 (in 8 months)

Open for entries · closes May 2027

Festival
July

Entries
Opens June · Closes May

Fees
~$10–$62 AUD depending on tier and category

Submit via
FilmFreeway & Festhome

Dedicated Australian documentary showcase presenting local and international non-fiction features and shorts, VR/XR, and pitching competitions across cinema and streaming formats.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- VR / XR
- Documentary
- Cash prizes
Details for Melbourne Documentary Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Rev
Major

Revelation Perth International Film Festival (Rev)

Perth, WA · Luna Cinemas Leederville
Next: 7 Jul 2027 (in 8 months)

Open for entries · closes 28 Feb 2027

Festival
July

Entries
Opens late Aug · Closes late Feb

Fees
$40–$60 AUD flat fee across categories

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Western Australia's champion of independent, underground, documentary, and experimental screen culture. Western Australian premieres required for all feature-length projects.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- VR / XR
- Genre (sci-fi, fantasy, cult)
- Experimental & underground
- Independent cinema
- Local / state-made
- Cash prizes
Details for Revelation Perth International Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
AUYFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Australia Youth Film Festival (AUYFF)

Sydney, NSW
Next: 30 Jul 2027 (in 8 months)

Open for entries · closes 31 May 2027

Festival
30–31 July 2027

Entries
Opens July · Closes May

Fees
Free

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Accepts shorts, documentaries, animation and music videos from Australia-based filmmakers aged 15–24, including students and non-students of any nationality. Entries must have been completed within two years of the deadline; previously published films are accepted.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Music videos
- Youth & students
Details for Australia Youth Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
CinefestOZ
Major

CinefestOZ

Busselton / Margaret River, WA
Next: Aug 2027 (in 9 months)

Entries open Feb 2027

Festival
August / September

Entries
Opens Feb · Closes June 1

Fees
~$50–$100 AUD depending on category

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Premieres Australian and French-Australian features, documentaries, and shorts across regional WA. Home of the prestigious $100,000 AUD CinefestOZ Film Prize; Western Australian premiere required.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Series & web series
- Music videos
- VR / XR
- Independent cinema
- Regional filmmakers
- Cash prizes
Details for CinefestOZ Submit (external site) Website (external site)
FSFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Far South Film Festival (FSFF)

Merimbula, NSW · The Twyford
Next: Aug 2027 (in 9 months)

Entries open Mar 2027

Festival
August

Entries
Opens Mar · Closes late May

Fees
~$25–$45 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Regional NSW festival showcasing films by regional and remote Australian filmmakers (at least two key creatives must reside in regional/remote Australia). Features short films under 40 minutes and features up to 90 minutes.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Independent cinema
- Regional filmmakers
- Cash prizes
Details for Far South Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
NISFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Noosa International Surfilm Festival (NISFF)

Noosa Heads, QLD
Next: Aug 2027 (in 9 months)

Submission dates TBC

Festival
August

Entries
Next submission window TBC

Fees
Next fee schedule not confirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

International surf and ocean features, documentaries, shorts, animation and experimental films. Strong preference is given to premieres. Selected films must meet Australian screening exclusivity and online-availability restrictions.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Surf & environment
Details for Noosa International Surfilm Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
QSFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Queer Screen Film Fest (QSFF)

Sydney, NSW · Event Cinemas George Street
Next: Aug 2027 (in 9 months)

Submission dates TBC

Festival
Aug / Sept

Entries
Next submission window TBC

Fees
Next fee schedule not confirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

LGBTQIA+ features and shorts with significant queer characters or themes. Includes an emerging narrative feature competition for first or second features. Australian shorts are encouraged to consider the organiser's separate Mardi Gras festival for My Queer Career eligibility.
- Features
- Shorts
- LGBTQIA+
- Cash prizes
Details for Queer Screen Film Fest Submit (external site) Website (external site)
MIFF
Major

Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF)

Melbourne, VIC · ACMI, The Capitol, Forum Melbourne
Next: 5 Aug 2027 (in 9 months)

Open for entries · closes 16 Feb 2027

Festival
August

Entries
Opens mid-Oct · Closes mid-Feb

Fees
Shorts $50–$95 AUD · Features $90–$145 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Australia's largest and most significant film festival and home of the MIFF Shorts Awards (Academy Award®, BAFTA, and Canadian Screen Award qualifying). Victoria premiere required for all selections.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- VR / XR
- Independent cinema
- Academy Award® qualifying
- BAFTA qualifying
- Cash prizes
Details for Melbourne International Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
SLSFF
Short film

Sparrowland Short Film Festival (SLSFF)

Brisbane, QLD · PIP Theatre
Next: 6 Aug 2027 (in 9 months)

Open for entries · closes 31 May 2027

Festival
August

Entries
Opens Aug · Closes late May

Fees
~$10–$30 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Independent short film festival held at PIP Theatre in Milton, Brisbane, dedicated to unique, heartfelt short films up to 20 minutes. Accepts drama, comedy, horror, queer, animation, student, music video, and documentary works. No premiere requirements.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Series & web series
- Music videos
- Horror
- Independent cinema
- LGBTQIA+
- Youth & students
Details for Sparrowland Short Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
SFC
Genre, identity & specialised

Space Faring Civilisation Film Festival (SFC)

Canberra, ACT · Tuggeranong Arts Centre
Next: 13 Aug 2027 (in 9 months)

Open for entries · closes 1 Jun 2027

Festival
13–14 Aug 2027

Entries
Opens Sept · Closes early June

Fees
Shorts $15–$50 · Features $50–$90 · Student rates and free workshop category; currency unconfirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Science-grounded, optimistic narratives, documentaries and animation, with shorts up to 30 minutes and a selected feature premiere. Features require Canberra premiere status; shorts have no prior-screening restriction. The workshop-participant category is free.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Genre (sci-fi, fantasy, cult)
- Science
- Uplifting stories
Details for Space Faring Civilisation Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
SCINEMA International Science Film Festival
Genre, identity & specialised

SCINEMA International Science Film Festival

Palmerston, Canberra, ACT
Next: 14 Aug 2027 (in 9 months)

Open for entries · closes 31 May 2027

Festival
14–22 Aug 2027 · Online and community screenings

Entries
Opens Aug · Closes May

Fees
$10–$60 across categories · Student rates and requested waivers; currency unconfirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Science-themed features, shorts, documentaries, animation, experimental films and television series. Films are considered for jury awards and a separate online/community screening program during National Science Week. Student fee waivers can be requested; awards are trophies rather than cash.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Series & web series
- Science
Details for SCINEMA International Science Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
AWFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Australian Women’s Film Festival (AWFF)

Sydney, NSW · Event Cinemas George Street
Next: Sep 2027 (in 10 months)

Submission dates TBC

Festival
September

Entries
Opening TBC · Closes July

Fees
$36–$45 USD · Previous-cycle rates

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Short films with at least three female key creatives. Fiction must pass the Bechdel Test, with discretion for documentaries and other forms that cannot technically meet it. Films must not have been broadcast on Australian television or widely distributed online before the festival.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Women & gender-diverse
Details for Australian Women’s Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Heart of Gold
Short film

Heart of Gold International Short Film Festival (Heart of Gold)

Gympie, QLD
Next: Sep 2027 (in 10 months)

Entries open Mar 2027

Festival
September / October

Entries
Opens Mar · Closes mid-year

Fees
~$30–$50 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Regional Queensland festival celebrating heartwarming, inspiring, and uplifting short films from Australia and worldwide. Features fiction, documentary, animation, and student works. Max 30 minutes.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Regional filmmakers
- Uplifting stories
- Cash prizes
Details for Heart of Gold International Short Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
RTBFF
Short film

Rock The Boat Film Festival (RTBFF)

Rockingham, WA · ACE HOYTS Rockingham
Next: Sep 2027 (in 10 months)

Entries open Mar 2027

Festival
Sept / Oct

Entries
Opens Mar · Closes July

Fees
Next fee schedule not confirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Short films and documentaries filmed or animated in Western Australia. The longest category requires films under 13 minutes; some categories have shorter limits. Main category winners receive cash prizes.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Music videos
- Local / state-made
- Cash prizes
Details for Rock The Boat Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
SUFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Sydney Underground Film Festival (SUFF)

Marrickville, Sydney, NSW · The Factory Theatre
Next: Sep 2027 (in 10 months)

Entries open Feb 2027

Festival
September

Entries
Opens Feb · Closes mid-Jul

Fees
Shorts $30–$55 AUD · Features $45–$75 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Dedicated to provocative, independent, counter-culture, and boundary-pushing cinema. Staged at The Factory Theatre in Marrickville across features, shorts, documentaries, and animation.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Genre (sci-fi, fantasy, cult)
- Experimental & underground
- Independent cinema
- Cash prizes
Details for Sydney Underground Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
UDFF
Short film

Underdog Film Fest (UDFF)

Kingston, Logan, QLD · Kingston Butter Factory Cultural Precinct
Next: Sep 2027 (in 10 months)

Entries open Mar 2027

Festival
September

Entries
Opens Mar · Closes June

Fees
Early entry $7.50 student / $12.50 general · Later rates unconfirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Independent short-film festival in Logan, welcoming diverse filmmakers including First Nations and LGBTQIA+ creators. Australian-made films compete; international shorts may enter an out-of-competition category using a requested waiver. Selected films require hardcoded English subtitles.
- Shorts
- Independent cinema
- LGBTQIA+
- First Nations
- Local / state-made
Details for Underdog Film Fest Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Weindorfer Short Film Festival
Genre, identity & specialised

Weindorfer Short Film Festival

Launceston, TAS · Launceston Conference Centre
Next: Sep 2027 (in 10 months)

Submission dates TBC

Festival
September

Entries
Opening TBC · Closes Aug

Fees
Fee schedule not confirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Films of 2–12 minutes connecting with Australia's natural environment, positive environmental action or the legacy of Kate and Gustav Weindorfer. Open and under-19 categories are restricted to Australian residents, including all members of group entries. Winners receive cash prizes.
- Shorts
- Youth & students
- Surf & environment
- Uplifting stories
- Cash prizes
Details for Weindorfer Short Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
VSFF
Short film

Very Short Film Festival (VSFF)

Hobart, TAS · State Cinema
Next: 3 Sep 2027 (in 10 months)

Entries open Feb 2027

Festival
September

Entries
Opens Feb · Closes early May

Fees
Free entry

Submit via
FilmFreeway

National short film festival premiering 2 to 5 minute Australian stories in Hobart before a nationwide tour. Competition films must incorporate the annual signature theme ('TURN' for 2027) and premiere at the festival. Free to enter across 18 & Under and 19 & Over categories.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Independent cinema
- Regional filmmakers
- Youth & students
- Cash prizes
Details for Very Short Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
DIFF
Deckchair Cinema photo by DaHuzyBru, CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized).

Major

Darwin International Film Festival (DIFF)

Darwin, NT · Deckchair Cinema
Next: 9 Sep 2027 (in 10 months)

Entries open Mar 2027

Festival
September

Entries
Opens Mar · Closes mid-Jun

Fees
$15 AUD flat fee ($10 student)

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Iconic outdoor cinema festival held at the waterfront Deckchair Cinema in Darwin. Features international, Australian, and Southeast Asian cinema; selected shorts receive a $100 screening fee.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Independent cinema
- Regional filmmakers
- Cash prizes
Details for Darwin International Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
AIFF
Short film

Adelaide Independent Film Festival (AIFF)

Adelaide, SA · Capri Theatre and Mercury Cinema
Next: Oct 2027 (in 11 months)

Entries open Jan 2027

Festival
October

Entries
Opens Jan · Closes June

Fees
Paid categories vary · Middle Eastern short-film category free

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Australian and international short films in any genre, completed in any year, with no strict premiere requirement. Includes animation, documentary, student, South Australian and First Nations categories, plus a screenplay program. Student films have a shorter 20-minute limit.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Screenplays
- Independent cinema
- First Nations
- Local / state-made
- Youth & students
Details for Adelaide Independent Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
CSFF
Short film

Canberra Short Film Festival (CSFF)

Canberra, ACT · Dendy Cinemas Canberra Centre
Next: Oct 2027 (in 11 months)

Entries open Feb 2027

Festival
October

Entries
Opens Feb · Closes late Jun

Fees
~$25–$45 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Long-running ACT short film festival screening national and international shorts up to 20 minutes across fiction, documentary, animation, music videos, and local categories.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Music videos
- Independent cinema
- First Nations
- Local / state-made
- Cash prizes
Details for Canberra Short Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Dark Nights Film Fest
Genre, identity & specialised

Dark Nights Film Fest

Surry Hills, Sydney, NSW · The Reservoir Cinema
Next: Oct 2027 (in 11 months)

Submission dates TBC

Festival
October

Entries
Opening TBC · Closes Aug

Fees
Fee schedule not confirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Horror and dark-genre short films, webisodes, narrative music videos and unproduced screenplays. Film submissions must be under 30 minutes, retain NSW premiere status and meet public-availability restrictions. The festival reserves most short-film slots for its open call.
- Shorts
- Animation
- Series & web series
- Music videos
- Screenplays
- Genre (sci-fi, fantasy, cult)
- Horror
- Independent cinema
Details for Dark Nights Film Fest Submit (external site) Website (external site)
EFFA
Genre, identity & specialised

Environmental Films Australia (EFFA)

Melbourne, VIC · Kino Cinema & Palace Westgarth
Next: Oct 2027 (in 11 months)

Entries open Jun 2027

Festival
October

Entries
Opens mid-year · Closes late Aug

Fees
~$25–$50 AUD depending on category

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Formerly Environmental Film Festival Australia. Volunteer-run Melbourne festival of documentary, narrative, experimental and animated films about climate, environments and the natural world. Features 40+ minutes, shorts 1–39 minutes; Australian, NZ and First Nations work especially welcome.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Documentary
- Surf & environment
- Cash prizes
Details for Environmental Films Australia Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Fraser Shorts Film Festival
Short film

Fraser Shorts Film Festival

Maryborough / Hervey Bay, QLD · Brolga Theatre and Big Screen Cinema
Next: Oct 2027 (in 11 months)

Open for entries · closes Sep 2027

Festival
October

Entries
Opens Oct · Closes Sept

Fees
$30 flat fee · Previous-cycle rate; currency unconfirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Short films across fiction, documentary, animation, experimental, environmental, First Nations, music video and student categories. Screenings take place in Maryborough and Hervey Bay. Only films made in the Fraser Coast region qualify for the local category.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Music videos
- Experimental & underground
- First Nations
- Regional filmmakers
- Local / state-made
- Youth & students
- Surf & environment
Details for Fraser Shorts Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Monster Fest
Genre, identity & specialised

Monster Fest

Melbourne, VIC · Cinema Nova
Next: Oct 2027 (in 11 months)

Entries open Jan 2027

Festival
October

Entries
Opens early year · Closes early Sep

Fees
Shorts $35–$60 AUD · Features $60–$90 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Horror, dark fantasy and extreme genre cinema. Features (60–120 min, Australian premiere) and shorts (15 min or less, Victorian premiere). Strict anti-AI policy.
- Features
- Shorts
- Animation
- Genre (sci-fi, fantasy, cult)
- Horror
- Cash prizes
Details for Monster Fest Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Port Shorts Film Festival
Short film

Port Shorts Film Festival

Port Douglas, QLD · Rex Smeal Park
Next: Oct 2027 (in 11 months)

Entries open Apr 2027

Festival
October

Entries
Opens Apr · Closes early Sep

Fees
~$30–$45 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Tropical outdoor short film festival in Far North Queensland and an official AACTA Awards qualifying event. Features Open, Local, Music Video, and Reel Futures youth categories under the palms at Rex Smeal Park.
- Shorts
- Music videos
- Regional filmmakers
- Youth & students
- AACTA qualifying
- Cash prizes
Details for Port Shorts Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
STUFFit Student Film Festival
Genre, identity & specialised

STUFFit Student Film Festival

Sunshine Coast, QLD
Next: 2 Oct 2027 (in 11 months)

Entries open Feb 2027

Festival
2 Oct 2027

Entries
Opens late Feb · Closes June

Fees
$15 early bird · $20 regular; currency unconfirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

International high-school student festival for ages 12–18, accepting scripted films, documentaries, animation, experimental work and music videos. All major production roles must be held by current students. Cash prizes are offered and generative AI content is ineligible.
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Music videos
- Youth & students
- Cash prizes
Details for STUFFit Student Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
AFIN
Genre, identity & specialised

AFIN International Film Festival (AFIN)

Brisbane, QLD · SunPAC & Dendy Cinemas Portside
Next: 10 Oct 2027 (in 11 months)

Open for entries · closes 27 Jun 2027

Festival
October

Entries
Opens late Oct · Closes late Jun

Fees
Shorts $26–$44 AUD · Features $33–$50 AUD (free for First Nations)

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Brisbane-based international festival celebrating independent cinema across features, shorts, documentaries, animations, series, and screenplays. Features 22 award categories with crystal trophies and memberships, plus free entry for Australian First Nations filmmakers. No strict premiere required, though premieres are prioritised.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Series & web series
- Screenplays
- Genre (sci-fi, fantasy, cult)
- Horror
- Independent cinema
- First Nations
Details for AFIN International Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
SSFFF
Genre, identity & specialised

Sydney Science Fiction Film Festival (SSFFF)

Sydney, NSW · Event Cinemas George St
Next: 15 Oct 2027 (in 11 months)

Open for entries · closes 27 Aug 2027

Festival
October

Entries
Opens mid-Oct · Closes late Aug

Fees
Shorts $20–$40 AUD · Features $40–$65 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Australia's premier dedicated science-fiction, fantasy, and speculative cinema festival. Showcases local and international speculative features, shorts, animations, and student works.
- Features
- Shorts
- Animation
- Genre (sci-fi, fantasy, cult)
- Independent cinema
- Cash prizes
Details for Sydney Science Fiction Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
AFF
Major

Adelaide Film Festival (AFF)

Adelaide, SA · Adelaide Studios
Next: 20 Oct 2027 (in 11 months)

Open for entries · closes 8 Jun 2027

Festival
October

Entries
Opens Nov · Closes early Jun

Fees
Shorts $40–$75 AUD · Features $80–$130 AUD

Submit via
FilmFreeway

South Australia's premier screen event showcasing Australian and international narrative features, documentaries, shorts, and series. Competitive festival requiring South Australian premieres for feature-length films.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Series & web series
- VR / XR
- Independent cinema
- Cash prizes
Details for Adelaide Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
BBFF
Major

Byron Bay International Film Festival (BBFF)

Byron Bay, NSW · Palace Byron Bay
Next: 22 Oct 2027 (in 11 months)

Open for entries · closes 31 Aug 2027

Festival
October

Entries
Opens Nov · Closes late Aug

Fees
$30–$75 AUD depending on category and tier

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Celebrates independent cinema across dramatic features, documentaries, shorts, animations, surf/environmental films, and VR/XR. Prefers NSW premieres for major titles and awards cash prizes.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Music videos
- VR / XR
- Screenplays
- Independent cinema
- Regional filmmakers
- Surf & environment
- Cash prizes
Details for Byron Bay International Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)
Cinematic Horror Film Festival
Genre, identity & specialised

Cinematic Horror Film Festival

Southport, Gold Coast, QLD · Dendy Cinemas Southport
Next: 31 Oct 2027 (in 11 months)

Entries open Apr 2027

Festival
31 Oct 2027

Entries
Opens Apr · Closes Aug

Fees
Shorts $25–$30 · Features $50–$100 · Other categories vary; currency unconfirmed

Submit via
FilmFreeway

Horror features, shorts, documentaries, animation, music videos and television pilots. No premiere requirement; recent work is prioritised. Student entries have a separate category and discretionary fee waivers are available.
- Features
- Shorts
- Documentaries
- Animation
- Series & web series
- Music videos
- Horror
Details for Cinematic Horror Film Festival Submit (external site) Website (external site)

Browse Australian film festivals

Submissions

Open for entries now (31)

Festival type

Short film festivals (23)
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State / territory

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Accepts

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Australian film festivals, sorted by what's next

Submission calendar (71)

Focus on Ability Short Film Festival (FOA)

Melbourne Queer Film Festival (MQFF)

Multicultural Film Festival (MFF)

SmartFone Flick Fest (SF3)

Central Coast Film Festival (CCFF)

The Other Film Festival (TOFF)

Newcastle International Short Film Festival (NiSFF)

Melbourne Underground Film Festival (MUFF)

Capricorn Film Festival (CFF)

Peninsula Film Festival (PFF)

Flickerfest (FLiCKERFEST)

Antenna Documentary Film Festival (Antenna)

Fleurieu Film Festival (FFF)

Australia Independent Film Festival (AIFF)

Mardi Gras Film Festival (MGFF)

WA Made Film Festival (WAMFF)

Birrarangga Film Festival (BFF)

Lights! Canberra! Action! (LCA)

Perth Queer Film Festival (PQFF)

Gippsland International Film Festival (GIFF)

National Indian Film Festival of Australia (NIFFA)

Melbourne Women in Film Festival (MWFF)

Screenwave / Nextwave Youth Film Fest (SWIFF / Nextwave)

Over The Fence Comedy Film Festival (Over The Fence)

Sydney Women’s International Film Festival (SWIFF)

Geelong Pride Film Festival (GPFF)

Fantastic Film Festival Australia (FFFA)

Gold Coast Film Festival (GCFF)

Melbourne Nocturnal Film Festival (MNFF)

West End Film Festival (WEFF)

St Kilda Film Festival (SKFF)

Sydney Film Festival (SFF)

Melbourne Documentary Film Festival (MDFF)

Revelation Perth International Film Festival (Rev)

Australia Youth Film Festival (AUYFF)

Far South Film Festival (FSFF)

Noosa International Surfilm Festival (NISFF)

Queer Screen Film Fest (QSFF)

Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF)

Sparrowland Short Film Festival (SLSFF)

Space Faring Civilisation Film Festival (SFC)

Australian Women’s Film Festival (AWFF)

Heart of Gold International Short Film Festival (Heart of Gold)

Rock The Boat Film Festival (RTBFF)

Sydney Underground Film Festival (SUFF)

Underdog Film Fest (UDFF)

Very Short Film Festival (VSFF)

Darwin International Film Festival (DIFF)

Adelaide Independent Film Festival (AIFF)

Canberra Short Film Festival (CSFF)

Environmental Films Australia (EFFA)

AFIN International Film Festival (AFIN)

Sydney Science Fiction Film Festival (SSFFF)

Adelaide Film Festival (AFF)

Byron Bay International Film Festival (BBFF)