by FilmInk Staff
The Young Australian Film Festival (YAFF) has announced its 2026 program, with 125 short films set to screen across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide over 10 days from 15–24 September.
The 2026 season will showcase a nationally expanded program of screenings, workshops and networking events, launching with an Opening Night Gala at IMAX Melbourne, the largest screen in the Southern Hemisphere.
Following a year of industry workshops and the launch of the 48-Hour Vertical Film Challenge, which generated more than 100,000 online engagements, the festival will also launch its first-ever ‘YAFF Industry Day’ on Sunday 20 September. A day of networking, panel discussions and practical workshops to develop and support young filmmakers.
Made for and by young filmmakers, YAFF was founded in 2023 by Alexander Dymalovski, Sebastian Catalano and Kellie Palatino, with the goal of giving emerging Australian filmmakers an accessible and supportive platform to screen their work, connect with industry and build their careers.
“It is incredibly difficult for young filmmakers to get their work seen,” says Festival Director, Alexander Dymalovski, “so we wanted to create a platform that bridges that gap and creates a community of filmmakers”
Tickets for YAFF 2026 go on sale 18 August for more details about our films, screenings and event visit our website at www.youngaustralianfilmfestival.com.au
