Until June 9th, 2026
Major prize pool + exhibition opportunities
$30AUD per submission
The Australian Photography Awards returns for its 10th edition in 2026, celebrating the strength and diversity of photographic practice across the country.
This year, the awards move to a single Open Category, inviting photographers to submit work across all genres from portraiture and landscape to documentary, wildlife, experimental, and contemporary practices.
Rather than dividing photography into separate categories, the awards recognise that today’s image-making often moves fluidly across styles and disciplines. The judging committee will select five winning images from the pool of entries that best represent where Australian photography is at in 2026.
Students currently enrolled in a recognised course may also opt into a Student Category at no additional cost when submitting a paid entry.
The awards remain committed to photography grounded in original image capture. While digital editing is permitted, AI-generated imagery is not accepted, and any AI-assisted editing must be disclosed during the entry process.
Finalists and shortlisted artists will be exhibited through print and projection as part of an exhibition program.
Taking place in Naarm/Melbourne during July 2026.
The APA Exhibition & Event Program will bring together artists and photographers from across Australia to share their work, make connections and celebrate photography.
Introducing the 2026 Committee
This year we’ve refined our approach, bringing together a focused committee to guide the award’s direction. With one category and multiple prizes, this group will work collaboratively to recognise the most compelling work submitted, drawing on the insight of leading Australian image makers, curators and educators who will consider this year’s entrants and champion standout photography.
Lisa Sorgini
Dr Alan Hill
Dr Ayooluwatomiwa Oloruntoba
Tom Goldner
Harriet Tarbuck
Angus Scott
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