The upcoming 2025 Sydney Women’s International Film Festival is championing women’s rights.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

5th December 2025 

                    The upcoming 2025 Sydney Women's International Film Festival                                     is amplifying women's rights.

Sydney, Australia — The Sydney Women's International Film Festival (SWIFF) is back for its fifth year, set to kick off with a spectacular Gold Carpet Grand Opening on Friday, April 11th at the newly opened Palace Cinemas in Moore Park's Entertainment Quarter.

Founded during the pandemic, SWIFF has grown exponentially, attracting entries from over 50 countries and building a dedicated following. This year's festival continues its mission to raise awareness of women's rights and amplify diverse female voices in the film industry. With a focus on women's stories told by female filmmakers, SWIFF is a vital platform for creative professionals pushing boundaries and addressing women's rights issues.

Attendance includes ACTRESS Clare McCann (Benefited, Channel [V]), ACTOR Carlos Sanson Jnr (Bump, Paper Dolls), ACTRESS Charlotte Chimes (Neighbours), ACTOR George Basha (The Combination, Hostile Forces, Convict), PRESENTER Bianca Hunt (NITV), ACTOR Julian Maroun (Home & Away, Romper Stomper, Ladies in Black, The Correspondent), REALITY STAR Aimee Wooley (Beauty & The Geek), REALITY STAR Dean Wells (MAFS), REALITY STAR Melissa Sheppard (MAFS), PRESENTER Andy Trieu (SBS Pop Asia), ACTRESS Kya Stewart (Risen, Wyrmwood), REALITY STAR Jackson Garlick (The Bachelorette), COVERGIRL Laura Lydall (Playboy, Maxim), ACTOR Joseph Raboy (Sahela, Suka), ACTRESS Amelia Foxton (Risen) and REALITY STAR Anthony Farah (Beauty & The Geek). 

The event will be hosted by Clare McCann, Actress/Director and multi-talented artist known for Benefited, Channel [V], her role in saving the iconic Roxy Theatre and founding SWIFF and launching the Marquee Sydney at The Star Casino.

Clare turned to film and championing women's rights after her time at the casino wanting to put her creative powers for good.

Expanding Reach to Amplify Women's Voices

This year, SWIFF is expanding its reach by introducing a TikTok presence, enabling international and interstate filmmakers who can't attend in person to still have their voices heard. This exciting new digital addition ensures more women's stories are shared worldwide, solidifying SWIFF's commitment to amplifying female and non-binary filmmakers.

STAND OUT NOMINEES

'My Heart Calls For You' Starring Mia Healey (The Wilds) and Josh Heuston (Dune: Sisterhood, Heart Break High, Dive Club) Directed by Bonnie Cee.

'Under The Water' Starring Tahlia Sturzaker (Christmas Ransom, Rising Wolf) Directed by Isabella Andronos.

'Mother Tongue' Starring Amelia Foxton (Risen) Directed by Glenn Fraser.

'Cry' Directed by Susanna Van Aswegen.

'Weedling' Directed by Angie Black.

'Born To Hustle' Directed by Grace Anna Cardona.

'She Wore Blue' Directed by Madeline Davies.

'Reel Equality' Directed by Meisha Lowe.

'Frances' Directed by Sharon Lewis.

TO ARRANGE AN INTERVIEW email hello@swiff.org.au 

About SWIFF 

Launched in 2020, the Sydney Women's International Film Festival (SWIFF) is a female-led platform dedicated to celebrating and promoting the work of self-identified female filmmakers. SWIFF's mission is to address gender inequity within the film industry by enhancing opportunities, recognition, and exposure for women filmmakers, while also providing audiences with powerful cinematic stories told by women. SWIFF has become an essential global stage for diverse voices, fostering a deeper understanding of women's experiences in a rapidly changing world.

Please contact hello@swiff.org.au for interview requests, press passes, and further details.

www.swiff.org.au

 www.instagram.com/swiff.org.au www.facebook.com/swiff.org.au www.twitter.com/swifforgau www.tiktok.com/@swiff.org.au