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Young creators, start rolling!

If you’re aged 12 to 24 and passionate about storytelling, filmmaking, acting or bringing creative ideas to life, this is your chance to shine. With a prize pool of over $3,000 plus thousands more in industry prizes up for grabs, the competition gives young filmmakers the opportunity to create something incredible and see their work on the big screen at HOYTS Warringah Mall.

How it works

Teams or solo creators have 4 days to create a short film (up to 7 minutes). Filmmakers must weave in secret challenge elements - a keyword, mystery item/s and phrase/s - revealed Wed 12 Aug, 4pm. Films are judged by a panel, with standout films screened at the Finals & Awards Night at HOYTS Warringah Mall.

Whether you're a director, scriptwriting genius, natural-born actor or just keen to try something new, this is your moment. It’s all about your story, your voice, your creativity. First time filming or already a filmmaking pro, everyone’s welcome.

Key events and dates

  • Secret rules revealed and film submissions open Wed 12 Aug 2026, 4pm
  • Film submissions close Sun 16 Aug 2026, 9pm
  • Finals and Awards night Wed 9 Sept 2026, 7pm

Checklist

  1. Read the competition rules and guidelines
  2. One team member completes the Team registration form
  3. One team member pays the team entry fee ($50 + booking fee)
  4. Each team member completes the Participant Consent and Indemnity form. If under 18, a parent/guardian will need to fill this out
  5. Start planning your film 
  6. The secret rules (mystery item, phrase and keyword) are released Wed 12 Aug 2026, 4pm. Include them in your film and start shooting when you're ready! 
  7. Submit your film by Sun 16 Aug 2026, 9pm

Check out the 2025 Beaches Young Filmmakers Comp films 

What to know more? Drop us a line at youth@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

Proud sponsors

Team registration

Register your team to participate in this year's Beaches Young Filmmakers Comp

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Competition rules and guidelines

View the complete list of the competition rules and guidelines

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Information and frequently asked questions

Want to know how the short film comp works? Find your answers here

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Filmmaking techniques

Must-dos, tips and resources for filmmakers

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Previous winning films

Check out the winners and finalists from previous young filmmakers comps

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Become a sponsor

Find out about our sponsorship opportunities to maximise exposure to your business or brand

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