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Tropfest is the world's largest short-film festival. After a six-year hiatus, it returned to Sydney on Sunday 22 February 2026 - bigger than ever - drawing audiences across families, creators and film fans nationwide.
If you missed the event, you can catch up on all the winning films online on the official Tropfest Youtube channel.
Tropfest is the world's largest short-film festival. After a six-year hiatus, it returned to Sydney on Sunday 22 February 2026 - bigger than ever - drawing audiences across families, creators and film fans nationwide.
If you missed the event, you can catch up on all the winning films online on the official Tropfest Youtube channel.
A look back at the films and people that defined Tropfest - from daring debuts to the films that left a lasting impression on audiences nationwide.
The top three films received several prizes to help kickstart their careers, including a share of $100,000, thanks to CommBank. Margot Robbie served as Jury President, heading a panel of prominent industry talent.
You still have the chance to vote for the People's Choice Award, proudly presented by CommBank. Learn how you can vote for your favourite film on the official Tropfest website.
From emerging filmmakers to some of Australia’s most recognisable faces, Tropfest has always brought the industry together. Here’s a look back at some of the names who’ve joined us over the years.
The 2026 signature motif, The Hourglass, represented the passing of time, new beginnings and how every moment can inspire a story. Filmmakers were encouraged to interpret the theme in any creative way - literal, symbolic or completely unexpected.
Traditionally, Tropfest themes have sparked some of the festival's most imaginative films, and 2026 was no exception.
'Crescendo', directed by Lianne Mackessey, took home the top prize at Tropfest 2026.
The powerful short drama follows a new mother whose babysitting plans collapse on the morning of a career-defining audition, capturing the tension between ambition and parenthood in just six compelling minutes.
'Crescendo', directed by Lianne Mackessey, took home the top prize at Tropfest 2026.
The powerful short drama follows a new mother whose babysitting plans collapse on the morning of a career-defining audition, capturing the tension between ambition and parenthood in just six compelling minutes.
John Polson on breaking into film, money and making it work
Filmmaker and founder of Tropfest short-film festival John Polson discusses the power of getting your work in front of an audience – even when the odds are stacked against you.
Tropfest alumni on turning a passion for film into a sustainable career
Tropfest alumni Alethea Jones, Gerard O’Dwyer and Robert Connolly share how they built successful businesses as creatives in film and television.
From grassroots filmmaking to Gone Girl: why Hollywood producer Bruna Papandrea believes in community
Australian producer Bruna Papandrea reflects on her career, the rise of artificial intelligence in film and why grassroots festivals like Tropfest still play a critical role in giving emerging filmmakers their first break.
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