A new year of storytelling begins. The Very Short Film Festival 2026 Signature has arrived — ready to connect storytellers and audiences through new voices and bold ideas. This year’s Signature is THREAD — the spark that will kickstart a new wave of stories across Australia.
Each year, VSFF sets a creative Signature — a single device that every film must weave in somewhere, somehow. It’s there so we know your story was made for this moment in time — fresh and original. The Signature isn’t your story; it’s just your creative cue. Tell the story that means something to you — whether it’s subtle or bold, visual or emotional, loud or quiet, as long as it’s you.
Think connection, rhythm and story — threads between people, moments and ideas. From fate and destiny to time and perspective, from colour or pattern to sound or light. THREAD can appear in any way you like — woven into a theme, hidden in a scene, or symbolised through image, sound or emotion. What matters most is that your story feels alive, authentic and of this moment.
We’re also rolling out new categories and opportunities in 2026 — new ways to tell stories, reach audiences and connect with creatives across Australia. Stay tuned, exciting things are coming.
So get thinking, storyboarding and start weaving your story. Entries open 15 January 2026, and submissions close 18 March 2026. Follow us on social media for updates — and be the first to hear about new announcements, prizes and premiere events.