The Ballarat International Foto Biennale has opened entries for its annual GradFoto awards, which celebrates the work of graduating students from selected institutions that teach photography.

The GradFoto Award showcases the high calibre of photographic work by graduates to new audiences across Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, and beyond, creating connections for them as they begin their artistic careers. Graduating students of diploma, bachelors, honours and masters programs are eligible to apply. Details of the institutions for which graduating students are able to apply and information about entering the competition can be found here.

Entry is free for all applicants and entries close on Sunday 17 November 2024, 11:59 PM AEDT. All applicants will have their submissions reviewed by a carefully selected judging panel. Up to 20 finalists will be selected and have their work exhibited online in the GradFoto 2024 exhibition. Judges will award one cash prize of AUD $1,000 to the overall winner. The winner of the GradFoto 2024 will also develop industry connections at the onset of their career through consultation with Ballarat Foto. Another finalist will be awarded one cash prize of AUD $500 for the People’s Choice Award, as voted by the public throughout the GradFoto 2024 exhibition.