Film Festival Calls for Young Auteurs’ Work

Now in its second year, the Australia Youth Film Festival (AUYFF) is a free-to-enter competition dedicated to finding and empowering the next generation of Australian filmmakers and creators.

Young creatives’ submissions into the 2025 AUYFF are welcomed now with entries open until the end of May.

AUYFF provides a national platform for emerging talent to showcase their work, gain industry exposure, and access invaluable learning opportunities.

“In our inaugural year, we received 733 entries from around the country. This year we’re aiming to further diversify our pool of entrants, and hoping for increased participation in particular from Victoria, along with the two film-centric destinations of Perth and the Gold Coast,” Festival Director Ryan Chow said.

AUYFF is committed to accessibility and affordability, emphasising that aspiring filmmakers do not need expensive equipment to participate.

“Many successful entries have been shot on smartphones, demonstrating the power of creativity and storytelling.

“We accept entries up to 20 minutes long of any story, genre and type, including short films, student projects, documentaries, music videos and more,” he said.

Successful nominees to the AUYFF will be invited to participate in an industry day, an exclusive event designed to provide the filmmakers with unparalleled access to industry insights, networking opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences.

Winner of last year’s Canon Best Cinematography category, 18-year-old Sam Jones, from Hobart, said entering the festival had helped forge connections with other like-minded filmmakers.

“I loved the industry day, especially exploring the ABC Ultimo studios. Being able to see some of the sets was so interesting and inspiring and wouldn’t have been possible without the festival so I’m very grateful - and keen to submit more films,” he said.

Sam is going to pursue an Arts degree at the University of Melbourne this year and wants to become a director.

AUYFF’s awards span multiple categories, including Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Documentary, Best Animation, Best Acting, Best Under-18 Filmmaker, and Best Overall Film. Prizes include a mix of professional filmmaking equipment, mentorship opportunities, and educational programs.

“The competition culminates in a live-streamed red-carpet awards ceremony - to be held in Melbourne this year - celebrating the achievements of young filmmakers in a high-profile setting attended by industry professionals, public figures, and creative leaders,” Mr Chow said.

For information, please visit https://auyff.com