Western Sydney’s ‘Made in the West’ Film Festival Set for Its Biggest Year

Western Sydney’s film scene is gearing up for the 14th annual Made in the West Film Festival, which is set to be the biggest one yet, as the area continues to thrive creatively.

“This year’s record number of entries shows that talent is growing faster than ever,” said the Mayor of Liverpool, Ned Mannoun.

This year, the festival has received 72 submissions. Liverpool City Council sponsors the festival, which will showcase short films, documentaries, music videos, and student work created by filmmakers who live, work, or study in the Western Sydney region.

A New Arts Strategy

The increase in creative activities comes after an investment in Western Sydney’s arts scene. This initiative includes the NSW government’s first Western Sydney Arts Strategy in over 25 years. The $5 million plan aims to make the arts more accessible, develop new festivals, and fix long-standing issues that local artists face.

“Backing Made in the West is part of our mission to build a thriving, inclusive cultural ecosystem: where local artists have real pathways into the screen industry,” said Mannoun. “The recently-rebranded Liverpool Powerhouse is strengthening the city’s identity as a centre for screen culture and creative innovation.”

The festival is taking place at a time when the region is experiencing rapid growth, with new data indicating an increase in young workers and families relocating to the area for employment opportunities, improved infrastructure, and a cultural scene.

The festival begins this weekend at Event Cinemas Liverpool. It features an Opening Night Gala and a VIP Awards Night, where community members can get free general admission tickets. 

Additionally, Marathon Summer Themed sessions will offer a mix of genres, including action, suspense, drama, and documentaries. The screenings will take place at Event Cinemas, Campbelltown, on Wednesdays; Arts & Cultural Exchange, Parramatta, on Fridays; Bankstown Arts Centre, on Saturdays; and Event Cinemas Liverpool, on Sundays, with double sessions in December.

“Made in the West captures the energy, diversity and imagination of our region and we are proud to stand behind it,” said Mannoun.

Online movie marathon streaming

The festival will also include the MEGA Movie Marathon streaming across the globe from 1 December 2025 to 28 February 2026. The program features 16 official selections, filmmaker interviews, and red-carpet footage. The streaming program will provide Western Sydney creatives with an audience beyond their suburbs. Liverpool residents can stream the marathon for free. 

“Made in the West shines a light on filmmakers who might otherwise go unseen and gives them the recognition, industry attention and community celebration they deserve,” said Mannoun. “We are proud to serve a community this talented. Liverpool’s creators, performers and innovators are leading Australia’s cultural future, and Council is committed to giving them every opportunity to grow.”

This year, there are more than $32,000 in prizes and awards available. Both in-person and online audiences can vote for the People’s Choice Award. This prize pool is especially beneficial for up-and-coming film creatives, since it offers the opportunity for professional support, equipment, mentorship, and industry connections.

The Made in the West Film Festival finishes up on 28 February at The Joan in Penrith, where the People’s Choice Award, Next Generation awards, and genre awards will be announced. It’s expected to be a celebration for an area that is one of the most exciting creative centres in the country.

The festival begins on Saturday, 22 November, at Event Cinemas Liverpool, with general admission available for free, VIP Supporter tickets for $20, and VIP Exclusive tickets for $100.