by FilmInk Staff

The Victorian Transport Accident Commission (TAC) is offering young Victorians the chance to make a life-saving difference, with its ‘Split Second’ Competition returning for a sixth year – this time with an exciting twist.

The initiative, designed to engage young creatives from 18 to 30 in spreading critical road safety messages, calls for a compelling 45-second short film capturing the devastating consequences of a split second decision on the roads.

This year the competition is open to both filmmakers and content creators and will now include two winning entries who will each be awarded a $5,000 cash prize and $35,000 production budget, and mentoring from Truce Films and creative agency Taboo.

One of the competition winners will be selected from a culturally and linguistically diverse community to ensure critical road safety messages are being tailored to engage as many young road users as possible across our multicultural state.

Entries are now open to filmmakers and content creators, who are asked to focus on of two risky road safety behaviours: fatigue and not wearing a seatbelt.

Sadly, young drivers continue to be involved in more crashes resulting in death and serious injury than any other group of drivers, and one of the most critical factors in those incidents is fatigue. Further, research shows that, people aged 18-25 are most likely to have travelled as a driver and passenger without wearing a seatbelt, which are crucial to preventing fatalities and serious injury.

TAC Head of Community Jacqui Sampson said fatigue and hesitation around seatbelt use were silent killers on our roads.

“It only takes a split second for a life to be changed forever. By engaging young filmmakers, we aim to bring fresh, impactful perspectives on how these risks can be prevented. Their creativity has the power to influence attitudes and behaviours, especially among their peers,” said Ms Sampson.

“To encourage and celebrate as many new and diverse voices as possible, we’re adding a brand new prize for young people with a multicultural background,” she said.

Not only championing road safety awareness, the TAC’s Split Second Competition also offers young creatives a unique opportunity to gain industry recognition and kick-start their careers.

2023 winner Sati Ocal said, “Not only has the TAC’s Split Second Competition allowed me to produce really meaningful content, but it has also created a number of opportunities as I complete my study and look to take the leap into the creative industry.”

If you’re an aspiring filmmaker, emerging creative, or social media whiz who wants to make a difference to the lives of young Victorians, visit www.splitsecond.au to learn more. Entry is open until November 24.

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