Tropfest Roughcut, an initiative designed specifically for emerging storytellers, has unveiled its 2026 panel program.
The dynamic two-day initiative, supported by Screen Australia and powered by YouTube, will bring some of the screen industry’s most influential creatives, executives and change-makers together to inspire the next generation of filmmakers.
Taking place Friday, February 20th, and Saturday, February 21st at NIDA, Roughcut sessions span every stage of the creative journey – from finding your voice and shaping a short film, to transitioning to long-form work, directing TV, and navigating the rapidly evolving global screen landscape.
Featuring standout guests, the program offers rare access to award-winning directors, producers, cinematographers, broadcasters, distributors and digital platform leaders, alongside deeply practical conversations about craft, career sustainability and inclusivity.
Speakers include Bus Stop Films’ Genevieve Clay-Smith, Superwog’s Theo Saidden, American film and television director Steph Green, director Yolanda Ramke, cinematographer John Seale and many more.
Tropfest Roughcut is open to emerging filmmakers, students, practitioners and creatives looking to deepen their skills, expand their networks and better understand the pathways available in today’s screen industry.
For the full program, see here. Tickets are now available here.
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Tropfest is making its return after a decade away, returning to its roots where filmmakers must create a brand-new short film that includes the iconic “Tropfest Signature Item” – which this year is an hourglass.
The festival announced major backing from the NSW Government, with NSW Premier Chris Minns describing Tropfest as “an Australian cultural institution.” Other partners include CommBank, YouTube, Qantas and Nine Entertainment.
“Tropfest has long been an important launchpad for filmmakers,” Margot Robbie, who is Jury President and will walk the Black carpet later this month, said in November last year. “It’s where creativity meets opportunity, and I’m incredibly excited to help celebrate and support the next wave of storytellers.”