AFF Goes to Cannes 2026 – call for submissions

Adelaide Film Festival (AFF) has again partnered with the Cannes Film Festival’s Marché du Film to showcase Australian filmmaking as part of the world’s largest film market, at the prestigious Festival de Cannes, 12–26 May 2026.

AFF is now calling for submissions from across Australia for the chance to be showcased as part of the Marche’s Goes to Cannes platform.

We are seeking five fresh and original feature projects (feature or doc) that are near completion/ or are works-in-progress to showcase as part of the coveted Goes to Cannes platform that has a unique cut through in the market.   

The objective of this initiative is to connect Australian films with the global market, to uplift sales and prospects such as international festival premieres for the projects. The five films selected are presented to an audience of sales agents, distributors, investors, programmers and other market delegates.

Successful submissions will receive complementary Marché accreditation and be included as an official ‘AFF Goes to Cannes’ selection. Selected projects will be eligible for a suite of prizes including a €10,000 cash prize presented by Sideral. 

* Currently AFF is unable to offer travel subsidies for successful participants. AFF encourages candidates to enquire about travel grants with Screen Australia or their local state screen agency.

Key Dates

18 Feb 2026 -Applications Open

18 March 2026- Applications Close 

1 April 2026- Applicants Notified 

15-18 May 2026 -Marché du Film

12-15 May 2026- Festival de Cannes

Who Can Apply?

Feature filmmakers from any state in Australia with recently completed or works in progress (feature fiction, documentary or animation) are invited to submit Expressions of Interest by COB, Wednesday 18 March 2026.

Eligibility & Key Details

Projects should be near-complete (in post-production) or completed and seeking international sales agents or market exposure.

Applications are encouraged from any state in Australia.

AFF will select five fresh and standout projects to participate in a formal market presentation and a suite of curated industry activities.

AFF will cover market registration fees and curate the exclusive work in progress showcase in Cannes.

Successful participants are expected to cover their own airfare, accommodation and ground transport costs.

Click here to apply: Expressions of Interest

For more information about the Cannes Marche and Goes to Cannes, visit: Marché du Film

For additional queries:

Kath McIntye

AFFIF Coordinator 

AFFIF@adelaidefilmfestival.org

For information about festival or travel funding please contact your relevant state film agency.