INAUGURAL NATIONAL UKRAINIAN FILM FESTIVAL LAUNCHES ACROSS AUSTRALIA AMID ONGOING FIGHT FOR FREEDOM
The Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO), in partnership with the Embassy of Ukraine in Australia and Australian state Ukrainian organisations, proudly announces the launch of the first-ever national Ukrainian Film Festival Australia (UFFA) 2026.
As the full-scale invasion enters its fifth year, this landmark cultural event will tour six major capital cities: Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, and Perth. The festival aims to bring contemporary Ukrainian cinema directly to Australian audiences, offering a profound window into the nation’s identity, unmatched resilience, and unwavering fight for democracy.
Cinematic Stories of Resilience and Self-Determination
The curated selection of films has been designed to appeal to a broad range of Australian audiences, from avid cinephiles to everyday communities. By using the universal language of film, UFFA shares vital stories of human connection, strength, and the foundational right to self-determination.
Beyond cultural storytelling, the festival serves to support Ukrainian filmmakers whose lives and careers were upended by the war. Many industry professionals have traded their cameras for combat gear. Highlighting this reality is the festival’s opening film, Cuba & Alaska, directed by Yegor Troyanovsky, who is currently serving as an active member of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
A Reminder to the World: The War is Not Over
As Ukraine continues to defend not only its own borders but also the collective freedoms of the Western world, UFFA stands as a powerful reminder to the Australian public that the war is far from over. Festival organisers emphasise that keeping global attention on Ukraine remains an urgent priority.
To turn solidarity into tangible action, the festival proudly supports two key AFUO appeals: the ‘Future Ukraine’ and ‘Defend Ukraine’ humanitarian and non-lethal military aid initiatives. Moviegoers will have the opportunity to donate directly to these causes.
Festival Locations & Scheduling Details
Screenings and ticket options vary by city, running from late May through early July 2026:
- Melbourne: 27 May – 2 June
- Sydney: 27 May – 2 June
- Adelaide: 24 May – 13 June
- Brisbane: 27 – 31 May
- Perth: 17 May – 5 July
- Canberra: Dates coming soon
Media Contact: Ashley Awramenko Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO) Email: ashley.awramenko@afuo.org.au
Telephone: 0438 363 505