Tropfest is heading back to Sydney’s Domain in 2027 with a major new funding commitment designed to secure the future of the influential short film festival.
Organizers announced that the festival will take place on February 13, 2027, returning to its former home at the Domain. The New South Wales Government has committed $2.7 million over three years to support the event and its work with emerging filmmakers.
The 2027 edition will include a free day-to-night program and the world premieres of 16 short films, continuing Tropfest’s long tradition of giving new filmmakers a high-profile platform.
George Miller brings major award to Tropfest
Filmmaker George Miller also announced that the Byron Kennedy Award will move to Tropfest. The award, named after Miller’s late creative partner and Mad Max co-creator Byron Kennedy, has previously recognized major Australian film talent including Jane Campion, Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin.
The festival is also bringing back its emerging filmmakers fund, with a total of $100,000 to be distributed among three filmmakers to support future projects.
A global audience for Australian shorts
Tropfest’s partnership with YouTube will continue, allowing viewers outside Australia to watch the festival online. Organizers say the digital audience has become a significant part of the event’s renewed reach.
Submissions for the 2027 festival are scheduled to open December 1. Filmmakers will be asked to create an original short of seven minutes or less and include the year’s signature item, a necklace.
After an eight-year hiatus before its recent revival, the new funding gives Tropfest a clearer long-term future and restores one of Australia’s best-known film events to a landmark Sydney location.