CinefestOz 2026
29 August – 6 September 2026
CinefestOZ returns to the Margaret River Region from 29 August to 6 September 2026, bringing nine days of Australian cinema, industry connection and community celebration to the South West.
From Busselton to Margaret River and beyond, the festival once again transforms the region into a dynamic cultural stage. Red carpet premieres, filmmaker Q&As, industry conversations and regional screenings create a week where storytelling takes centre stage.
Planning your visit to CinefestOZ? Pullman Bunker Bay Resort offers a refined coastal base just a short drive from Busselton and Margaret River screening venues, allowing you to experience the festival while retreating to space and calm at the end of each day
Festival Highlights
Deadly Day
Saturday 29 August | Busselton
Opening the 2026 festival is Deadly Day, a free community event centred on First Nations voices and storytelling. Through film, conversation, music and celebration, the day creates space for connection and cultural exchange in a vibrant and inclusive setting.
The CinefestOZ Film Prize Journey
Wednesday 2 – Saturday 5 September
At the heart of CinefestOZ is Australia’s richest film prize for a homegrown feature. Audiences follow the full Film Prize journey, from Western Australian premieres through to the final announcement, celebrating outstanding Australian filmmaking and the creative teams behind it.
Industry Conference
Thursday 3 & Friday 4 September
The CinefestOZ Industry Conference brings together screen practitioners, creatives and decision-makers to explore the future of storytelling. Panels and keynote sessions examine sustainability, innovation and opportunity within Australia’s evolving screen landscape.
Short Films & Signature Events
Throughout the Festival
The Short Film program continues to champion emerging and established filmmakers, showcasing bold and diverse voices from across the country. Intimate Q&As, special screenings and side-bar events create moments of connection between audiences and creatives, culminating in the prestigious Short Film Awards in the South West.
Stay at Pullman Bunker Bay Resort
After a day immersed in cinema, return to the coastal setting of Pullman Bunker Bay Resort. Our villa-style accommodation offers space and privacy, complemented by ocean-view dining at Other Side of the Moon, restorative treatments at Vie Spa and access to the natural beauty of Bunker Bay. Complimentary parking makes it easy to explore the region’s screening venues and festival events at your own pace.
Whether you are attending premieres, industry sessions or planning a relaxed festival escape, Pullman Bunker Bay Resort is a considered choice for CinefestOZ 2026. Plan Your Festival Escape Secure your accommodation early for CinefestOZ 2026 and experience the Margaret River Region in one of its most vibrant seasons.
Image credit: CineFestOz
