Tropfest, once the world’s largest and most celebrated short film festival, is making a dramatic comeback. After folding in 2019 on the eve of the pandemic, the festival will return in February 2026, with its iconic finals night back at Sydney’s Centennial Park.
The revival comes with heavyweight backing from billionaire investors Sarah Murdoch and Richard Weinberg, alongside support from figures including sports administrator Peter V’landys, actor Bryan Brown, and Tropfest’s original founder John Polson. A new not-for-profit Tropfest Foundation has also been established to secure the event’s future.
What began in 1993 as an impromptu short film screening at Darlinghurst’s Tropicana Café became a cinematic institution. “Accidentally” founded by actor-director John Polson, Tropfest grew into a cultural juggernaut that once drew crowds of up to 100,000 for its star-studded outdoor finals night.
The festival launched the careers of some of Australia’s biggest names, including Sam Worthington, Joel Edgerton, and Rebel Wilson. Its emphasis on brevity, wit, and experimentation gave Sydney a unique cinematic identity and inspired a generation of filmmakers.
The brand’s influence is so enduring that news of its return reportedly prompted Martin Scorsese to record a congratulatory video for the revival team.
The festival will return to its classic format: short films of seven minutes or less, each incorporating a unique “signature item” to prove it was made for Tropfest. For 2026, that item is an hourglass.
Prize money, backed by major sponsor Commonwealth Bank, is set at A$50,000 for first place, A$30,000 for second, and A$20,000 for third.
“You don’t need a big budget, just a big idea,” Polson said. “Some of our best films were made for less than $100, and I wouldn’t be surprised if our 2026 winner is shot on a smartphone.”
Since Tropfest’s hiatus, the world has shifted. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels have nurtured a wave of young creators fluent in visual storytelling. With short-form content now a daily part of global culture, Tropfest’s return arrives at the perfect moment to harness fresh creative voices.
“Young people everywhere are experimenting with narrative, editing, and style,” said Polson. “Tropfest is a natural next step for those who want to take that creativity further.”
YouTube has joined as a sponsor, committing to livestream the 2026 finals and offer free creator workshops for entrants. The festival is also running a “Trop ’til You Drop” YouTube marathon from 5 September, showcasing two weeks of classic Tropfest films streaming around the clock.
