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PerthNow, in partnership with SAE Creative Media Institute, offered short film makers nationwide, the chance to take out a piece of a $75,500 prize pool, currently the richest in the country. More than 750 entries were received, demonstrating the growing interest and passion for film making across Australia and WA.

Short film can be the start a journey for new filmmakers, and, for experienced creatives, it’s an opportunity to have more creative freedom and to innovate or refine their ideas through the short film format.

The prize jury for the competition included high profile and qualified film critics, educators, and screen industry practitioners, giving our passionate short-film makers the opportunity to gain exposure to this exciting sector.

The Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, Director General Lanie Chopping presented the prize for the West Australian Short Film Category – taken out by Taylor Finch, Nicholas Verryn, Nadine Barry and Kyle Thistlethwaite for ‘Verge Collection’.

‘Verge Collection’ also won the People’s Choice prize, with the WA First Nations Filmmaker prize, sponsored by Screenwest, going to Marlanie Haerewa for ‘The Tale of Mr. Kimberley’. 

Perth’s Juno Shean received the Next Gen Youth prize for ‘The Ways We Cook’ and Radheya Jegatheva won the overall Best Australian Short Film prize for ‘Bird Drone”.

Ms Chopping recognised the flourishing screen sector in Western Australia, saying:

“WA filmmakers have something to say, and Western Australian audiences are watching and listening to home grown stories.

“Our talented Western Australian filmmakers are part of a global workforce of filmmakers in an industry that is growing.

“And… 2024 is shaping up to be the busiest year yet for Western Australian film production!”

This West Australian Short Film Category was proudly supported by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.