With a $77,500 prize pool, the initiative is backed by Seven West Media, Screenwest and The WA Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.
The distinguished panel of judges for the awards includes: former Foxtel story producer and SAE film and animation course director, Dr Teresa Rizzo; acclaimed WA director, Zak Hilditch; Gold Logie-nominated Indigenous actor, Mark Coles Smith; award-winning director, Nel Minchin; Home and Away star and awarded playwright, Kirsty Marillier; and Perth Festival film curator, Tom Vincent.
SAE General Manager, Dr Luke McMillan, shared his delight in the Institute supporting the growth of the Australian film industry, with the SAE Emerging Talent Prize.
“SAE is thrilled to be supporting up-and-coming filmmakers by partnering with The Best Australian Short Film Competition, where we are offering a $10,000 partial student scholarship for a bachelor’s degree of animation or film,” he said.
“In recent times, we’ve witnessed remarkable growth within the Australian film sector. As leaders in creative media education, this expansion has opened doors for our students to craft compelling content that sparks profound discussions and paves the way for successful careers in the industry.”
West Australian Newspapers Editor in Chief, Anthony De Ceglie, explained the significance in finding some of the country’s best short films.
“This competition is more than a chance to win substantial cash prizes; it’s an opportunity for filmmakers to share their stories with a wider audience, to celebrate the power of storytelling through the art of short films, and to serve as a stepping-stone for emerging talents.
“We are excited to witness the creative brilliance that will shine through this competition and are proud to be part of an initiative that supports and uplifts our local film industry.”
Entries for The Best Australian Short Film Competition are now open, inviting filmmakers to submit their shorts in the following categories:
- The Best Australian Short Film Prize – $30,000
- SAE Emerging Talent Prize – $10,000 partial scholarship towards an SAE Bachelor of Animation or Film
- Next Gen Youth Prize – $5,000
- Best Animation Prize – $5,000
- Future of Film Innovation Prize – $5,000
- People’s Choice Prize – $5000
- The West Australian Short Film Prize – $10,000
- WA First Nations Filmmaker Prize – $7,500
Visit The Best Australian Short Film website for full terms and conditions.
