Sydney Virtual Film Festival 2026 Q1
Autumn Festival - March 2026
Submissions Open: January 12, 2026 at 8:00 AM (Sydney Time)
Submissions Open
Sunday, January 12, 2026 at 8:00 AM Sydney Time (AEDT)
Early submissions get the best rates! Don't miss the Earlybird deadline.
About the Festival
Sydney Virtual Film Festival is a quarterly celebration of independent cinema where audiences choose the winners. We provide a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work globally while earning revenue from ticket sales.
Why Submit?
- ✓ Revenue Share: 40% minimum guaranteed from ticket sales + winner bonuses (up to 70%)
- ✓ Global Audience: Reach viewers worldwide through our virtual platform
- ✓ Cinema Screenings: Top 3 winners get guaranteed physical theater screenings
- ✓ Audience Voting: Democratic selection - viewers choose the winners
- ✓ Marketing Support: Featured placement and promotional support
- ✓ No Gatekeeping: Fair evaluation based on audience engagement
Festival Format
All accepted films are available for online viewing during the festival period (March 20-31, 2026). Viewers purchase tickets to watch films and rate them. The top 3 films in each category win prizes and guaranteed cinema screenings.
Ready to Submit?
Choose your category below to see the submission fee and get started. Early submissions save money!
Feature Films
60 to 180 minutes
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Mini Feature Film
40 to 59 minutes
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Short Film
Up to 39 minutes
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Documentary
Any length
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Australian Content
Made in Australia - Any length
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Student Films
Student projects - Any length
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First-Time Filmmakers
Debut films - Any length
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Animation
Any technique - Any length
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Experimental
Avant-garde - Any length
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Important Dates
Opening Date
January 12, 2026
8:00 AM Sydney Time
Earlybird Deadline
January 23, 2026
Lowest fees!
Regular Deadline
February 13, 2026
Late Deadline
March 6, 2026
Final deadline!
Festival Dates
Mar 20 - Mar 31, 2026