Australian Life photography competition

A nation-wide photography competition and exhibition open to professional and amateurs.

Two Nawarddeken people walk through a dark forest lit by the glow of a fire. The person in front holds a torch in one hand and a snake in the other.

Entries now closed

  • Grand prize winner announced: Thursday 14 September 2023.
  • Exhibition: Thursday 14 September to Sunday 8 October 2023.
  • People’s choice voting opens: Thursday 14 September
  • People’s choice voting closes: 11:59pm, Sunday 1 October, Sydney time
  • People’s choice winner announced: Thursday 5 October

Pictured above: Hunting with Fire, Matthew Abbott (2022 grand prize winner).

Photography prize and exhibition 2023

Australian Life showcases scenes and stories that make us laugh, cry and wonder.

From the epic to the intimate, the harsh to the fragile, Australia holds so many experiences for so many people.

Whether you’re professional or amateur, we want to see Australian Life through your lens.

You may capture any aspect of Australia – everyday occurrences, fleeting moments, unusual places, intriguing characters, the diversity of cultures or subcultures, celebrations or rituals, natural or artificial environments.

From the entries we receive, 28 finalists will be selected to have their work enlarged and exhibited on Alfred Street in Circular Quay from 14 September to 8 October.

Grand prize

The $10,000 Australian Life prize will be awarded for the most outstanding work in the exhibition, determined by a distinguished panel of judges.

People’s choice award

The People’s Choice Award invites everyone to vote for their favourite during the exhibition.

  • People’s choice voting opens: Thursday 14 September
  • People’s choice voting closes: 11:59pm, Sunday 1 October, Sydney time
  • People’s choice winner announced: Thursday 5 October

The photographer who receives the most votes will receive an OM System professional pack valued at over $2,300.

Judges