Tropfest To Return Sydney After Six Year Hiatus

One of Sydney’s most admired festivals, Tropfest returns to Centennial Park in February 2026 after a hiatus of six years.

After the film festival’s hiatus in 2019, the Minns Labor government formed a partnership to support the festival’s return.

Founded in 1993 by John Polson, the festival unites film goers and film makers in a contest that showcases the work of aspiring directors.

Known for being the world’s largest short film festival, people scour to experience screenings and the launches of careers for emerging filmmakers across Australia and internationally.

Tropfest Founder, John Polson said, “It’s been my dream for six long years to bring Tropfest back. Now, thanks to some key players, we’re able to put the event right back where it belongs, in the heart of Sydney and in the hearts of Australians everywhere.”

Made to encourage emerging filmmakers, Australian citizens and residents are eligible for the competition, although filmmakers from across the world can enter Tropfest through their “out of competition” program. This allows international filmmakers the chance to have their projects screened in front of mass audiences, but international entries will not be in the running for the prize pool.

Since Tropfest’s debut, the festival has successfully staged 29 events in Sydney’s CBD, as well as events in the USA, China, Africa, South East Asia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Middle East and the United Kingdom.

After the festival’s abandonment in 2019, Polson wasn’t sure of its future, saying, “When we wrapped it up, I didn’t know for sure if we were wrapping it up forever.”

“I thought something would fill its place, but nothing did fill its place, and if anything, people are more embracing of Tropfest than they were before.”

“Launchpad for generations of talented filmmakers”, says Premier

Tropfest introduced its comeback alongside NSW Government earlier this week.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said, “Our government is committed to backing events that not only celebrate our creative talent but also put NSW on the world stage. This festival has been a launchpad for generations of talented filmmakers and it’s a major drawcard for our city.”

Participants within the festival are in the running for cash prizes of up to $100,000, as Tropfest and CommBank encourage winners to utilise the winnings to further career development.

The prize pool consists of $100,000 for the first prize, $30,000 for second prize and $20,000 for third prize. In addition, filmmakers are also entered into a winning pool to win a Google tech bundle which is catered to further career development.

Tropfest has helped launch successful careers from infamously known directors including Paul Fenech (Fat Pizza, Housos), Clayton Jacobson (Kenny), Nash Edgerton (Mr Inbetween), Robert Connolly (Paper Planes, The Dry), Gregor Jordan (Two Hands), Emma Freeman (Stateless, The Newsreader), Damon Gameau (Future Council), Abe Forsythe (Wolf Like Me) and Alethea Jones (Peacemaker).

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said, “The Minns Labor Government’s support for Tropfest is an investment in the future of our screen industry. This festival provides a vital platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work and connect with the industry.”

The festival’s return marks a new chapter and now delegates a year round program culminating in the main festival. The Tropfest Foundation will consist of workshops and storytelling talks that provide lasting career opportunities. The Tropfest Foundation is dedicated to providing gateways for the next generation of storytellers, with the non-for-profit foundation launching in October this year.

As the NSW Government has championed alongside Tropfest for several festivals, they recognise its role in showcasing Sydney’s talents, building a global reputation for Sydney as a vibrant cultural hub. 

Tropfest submissions open on December 1 2025, with the filmmakers shortlist being announced in late January 2026. The festival screen commences on Sunday 2 February 2026.