Tropfest, the world’s largest short film festival, has announced ahead of its 2026 return that it has partnered with Screen Australia, YouTube and strategic partner NIDA to host Tropfest Roughcut — a two-day, industry-ready accelerator program for young and emerging filmmakers in Australia, hosted at Sydney’s National Institute of Dramatic Art.
The globally recognised festival has long been a shepherd of the short film art form, but Roughcut is a step in a new direction for the organisation, directing its knowledge and talent base to supporting the next generation of creatives to be, bridging the gap between short-form creation and long-term career sustainability.
“Tropfest Roughcut is two days of big ideas, creative insights, and practical tools for filmmakers stepping into the next phase of their careers” said Tropfest Director and Founder John Polson. “Tropfest has always been about opening doors and discovering talent and Roughcut is about what happens after that moment. It’s about helping filmmakers build the skills, confidence and industry understanding they need to sustain a career.”
Across two days, Tropfest Roughcut will invite a body of emerging filmmakers, students, Tropfest finalists and shortlisted filmmakers for curated keynotes, panels, case studies and hands-on workshops. The program will explore a mix of craft, audience, platforms, financing, creative development and the evolving screen industry.
Screen Australia Chief Operating Officer Grainne Brunsdon said, “Empowering emerging filmmakers with the skills and support they need to build sustainable, long-term careers is vital to the strength and future of our screen industry. In a landscape that is increasingly complex and rapidly evolving, Tropfest Roughcut provides an essential forum to develop the foundational knowledge, meaningful connections and insights that early career practitioners need to navigate the industry with confidence.”
Ed Miles, Director, YouTube Partnerships Australia and New Zealand added, “YouTube is all about helping new voices find an audience, which is why we’re proud to partner with Screen Australia for Tropfest Roughcut. This program is designed to give filmmakers and creatives the real-world skills and industry insights needed to turn their passion into a sustainable career.”
Tropfest Roughcut 2026 will run on Saturday, February 20 and Saturday, February 21 at NIDA. Tickets start at $25 + GST per session, and go on sale soon. Visit the Tropfest website for up-to-date news.
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