The 2026 AACTA Awards showcased the best of Australian cinema and television, with horror film Bring Her Back dominating the evening. The film garnered an impressive 10 awards, including the coveted Best Film, at the ceremony held on March 10, 2026, at HOTA in Surfers Paradise.
Directed by brothers Michael and Danny Philippou, Bring Her Back tells the chilling tale of a grieving mother who seeks supernatural help to resurrect her daughter. In addition to Best Film, the movie received awards for Best Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Costume, Best Editing, Best Casting, Best Score, Best Sound, and Best Hair and Makeup. Sally Hawkins was recognized with the award for Best Lead Actress for her performance in the film, marking a significant achievement in her career.
The awards also honored Richard Roxburgh as Best Lead Actor for his role in The Correspondent, a film inspired by the true story of journalist Peter Greste. This feature also won Best Screenplay and Best Production Design, further highlighting its critical acclaim.
In the television categories, the streaming series The Narrow Road to the Deep North captured attention with nine awards, including Best Direction and Best Cinematography. Jacob Elordi received the accolade for Best Lead Actor in a Drama for his role in the five-part series, while Heather Mitchell was awarded Best Supporting Actress in a Drama.
The ABC series The Newsreader also celebrated success, winning four awards from twelve nominations. Among its accolades was Best Drama, alongside Best Lead Actress in a Drama for Anna Torv, solidifying its place as a standout production of the year.
The complete list of winners reflects the diverse talent and storytelling present in Australian film and television today.
Complete List of Winners at the 2026 AACTA Awards
Film Awards:
– Best Film: Bring Her Back
– Best Direction: Bring Her Back
– Best Cinematography: Bring Her Back
– Best Indie Film: Lesbian Space Princess
– Best Lead Actor: Richard Roxburgh – The Correspondent
– Best Lead Actress: Sally Hawkins – Bring Her Back
– Best Screenplay: The Correspondent
– Best Supporting Actor: Julian McMahon – The Surfer
– Best Supporting Actress: Deborah Mailman – Kangaroo
Television Awards:
– Best Drama Series: The Newsreader
– Best Lead Actress in a Drama: Anna Torv – The Newsreader
– Best Direction in Drama or Comedy: The Narrow Road to the Deep North
– Best Acting in a Comedy: Miranda Tapsell – Top End Bub
– Best Miniseries: Apple Cider Vinegar
– Best Narrative Comedy Series: Bump
– Best Screenplay in Television: The Newsreader
– Best Documentary or Factual Program: The People vs Robodebt
– Best Comedy Entertainment Program: Hard Quiz
The 2026 AACTA Awards not only celebrated individual achievements but also underscored the richness and creativity of the Australian film and television industry, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
