KEY DATES:

Film submissions open: Monday 2 February 2026

Super Earlybird Deadline: Monday 2 March 2026

Final Deadline: Tuesday 30 June 2026

Notification Date: Monday 3 August 2026

Event Date: 1 to 11 October 2026

Every year we play over 100+ films at the Heart of Gold flagship festival, and a selection will go on tour playing at other events across Queensland. To have your film considered for selection, enter it via FilmFreeway using the button below.

Films selected for the 2026 program will be eligible for a number of awards which this year includes:

• Best International Short Film $1,500

• Best Australian Short Film $1,500

• Best Queensland Short Film $1,500

• Best Documentary Short Film $500

• Best Animation Short Film $500

• Best Comedy Short Film $500

• Best Secondary Student Short Film $500 (free entry)

• Screener’s Pick Award $500

• Audience Choice Award $500

Films must be under 25 minutes and appropriate to the Heart of Gold ethos.

Questions? Contact our Program Manager at program@heartofgold.com.au