film

First Nations films to feature in Sydney’s 73rd Sydney Film Festival

Phoebe Blogg
Phoebe Blogg Published May 7, 2026 at 12.30pm (AWST)

Returning to Sydney from June 3-14, the Sydney Film Festival will present 248 films from 81 countries, including 19 World Premieres, three International Premieres and 140 Australian Premieres, with screenings at the State Theatre, Sydney Opera House, and cinemas across the city.

In 2026, the festival program is brimming with a range of new films and creatives. Several First Nations films will also feature in this year's program, showcasing storytelling and culture across screens.

The First Nations films set to feature in the Sydney Film Festival include: Yumburra (2026), Lomu (2026), ARRU (2026), Powwow People (2025), At The Place of Ghosts (2025), Wrong Husband (2025), Nika & Madison (2025), Aanikoobijigan (2026), and Sukundimi Walks Before Me (2026).

Poster for First Nations film 'Ceremony', directed by Banchi Hanuse. (Image: supplied)

Festival attendees will also be able to connect with fellow filmgoers and filmmakers, participate in special events and exclusive talks, or grab a drink and a bite to eat at The Hub at Lower Town Hall.

Open to the public each night, and select days, from June 3-14, The Hub will feature a daily Happy Hour special pop-up bar between 4:30pm and 6:00pm.

"We want to invite you to join us at SFF this year, where each moment offers an opportunity for discovery and empathy," said Sydney Film Festival director Nashen Moodley.

"Art and cinema help us make sense of the world, take us into the lives of people far away from us, and remind us to remain vigilant about our own rights and freedoms.

"And we can't forget, they're also an enormous source of joy."

Guests at the 2025 Sydney Film Festival. (Image: supplied)

NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Steve Kamper, said the return of the festival is set to further benefit Sydney's lively event calendar.

"Sydney Film Festival spotlights the Harbour City as a vibrant global hub for the arts and world-class cultural experiences," he said.

"Not only does it showcase local and world films before they receive international acclaim, but it also attracts thousands of visitors each year, creating a buzz around Sydney and supporting businesses and jobs across our visitor and night-time economy."

The Sydney Film Festival is one of the world's longest-running and most prestigious film festivals.

The festival will showcase the very best in contemporary cinema and offer audiences the chance to experience premieres, red carpet events, and exciting special programs across Sydney.

The Festival is supported by the NSW Government through Screen NSW and Destination NSW, the Federal Government through Screen Australia, and the City of Sydney.

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National Indigenous Times

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