Film producers Kristina Ceyton and Samantha Jennings are recognized for innovation and exceptional commitment to excellence.
The ACTA The Byron Kennedy Award is awarded to the Australian production duo Kristina Ceyton (photo left) and Samantha Jennings (photo right) of Causeway Films.
The Award recognizes innovation and exceptional commitment to excellence.
Causeway productions include The Babadook, the Nightingale, talks to me And Bring her backwho leads this year ACTA Film nominations with 16 nods.
Named in honor of Dr.’s film partner. George Miller and Crazy Max co-creator Byron Kennedy, the award includes a $10,000 cash prize and will be determined by an appointed jury.
Meanwhile, more names have been added to the AACTA Festival 2026, including Yerin Ha (Bridgerton), Dichen Lachman (Disconnection) and Baz Luhrmann.
New festival additions include:
Yerin Ha – Bridgerton’s new leading lady
Australian Yerin Ha steps into the global spotlight and talks about her major role in the new season of the global hit Bridgerton.
Australian actress Dichen Lachman comes to the festival from Los Angeles to talk to the audience about her breakthrough role in the world hit Severance.
Exclusive screenings and showcases
EPiC: Elvis Presley In Concert – Baz Luhrmann and other key creatives hit the red carpet for the Australian premiere.
Two Years Later – One of Australia’s biggest rising stars, Phoebe Tonkin, joins the world premiere of Two Years Later.
The Beast in Me – Director Tyler Atkins (Bosch & Rockit) and producer John Schwarz take audiences for a first look at the Australian-shot MMA action film The Beast in Me, starring Russell Crowe, alongside Daniel MacPherson and Luke Hemsworth.
Kenny – 20th anniversary display. Celebrating 20 years of Australia’s beloved Everyman with Shane Jacobson and director Clayton Jacobson.
Danny and Michael Philippou return to the AACTA Festival with a session charting their journey through past, present and future projects. From their wild, rough RackaRacka beginnings to the global impact of their feature debut.
The festival also delves into the jungle with a special I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! conversations, celebrating iconic challenges, fan favorite moments and the spirit that made the series a national favorite. Guests are announced.
Feelgood TV explores programs that make us smile, inspire and come back for more.
Featuring AACTA nominees Adam Liaw with The Cook Up with Adam Liaw and prolific producer Kylie Washington (Bake-Off, Dancing with the Stars, Return to Paradise, Ghosts).
Sacha Horler and Susie Porter offer rare peer-to-peer insight into the discipline, pressure and joy of performing.
AACTA Festival: Wednesday February 4 – Sunday February 8, 2026
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