Indigenous talent to watch out for in 2026
In 2026, Indigenous Australian talent and media will continue to lead the national cultural landscape through high-profile film releases, acclaimed TV dramas, and major musical showcases.
Our Top 10 Tips for Indigenous Talent, Movies, and Shows in 2026
1.Watch for Wolfram by Warwick Thornton: Celebrated director Warwick Thornton’s latest feature film, Wolfram, is a highly anticipated release in 2026, following his international success with The New Boy.
2. Catch the Premiere of Imagine: Arriving in cinemas on January 26, 2026, this film features a powerhouse cast including Wayne Blair and Yolande Brown. It follows a teenager’s journey through a magical realm guided by Aboriginal Elders.
3. Stream Goolagong on ABC: A premium 2026 mini-series chronicling the life of world champion tennis player and Australian sporting icon Evonne Goolagong.
4. Follow Talent like Mark Coles Smith: A leading figure in the “outback noir” genre, Smith stars in several 2026 projects, including the action-thriller Beast of War and the animated series Little J and Big Cuz.
Mark Coles Smith stars in several 2026 projects.
5. Discover Moonbird on NITV: This Tasmanian-set drama, co-produced by the first-ever Tasmanian Aboriginal screen production company, focuses on cultural reconnection during the muttonbirding season.
6. Look for It Will Find You: Starring Aaron Pedersen and Brooke Blurton, this supernatural thriller explores a family curse and ancestral spirits.
7. Attend the Aboriginal Cultural Showcase: Hosted in early 2026, this event features headliners like country music legend Warren H. Williams (nominated for two 2026 Golden Guitar Awards) and yidaki master Mark Atkins.
Country music legend Warren H. Williams.
8. Explore Emerging Creators: Keep an eye on rising talent such as Lennox Monaghan (Windcatcher, Moonbird), Jayden Kitchener-Waters (singer-songwriter), and Sara Khan (writer/director).
9. Experience Journey Home, David Gulpilil: A poignant documentary following the logistical and cultural challenges of returning the remains of legendary actor David Gulpilil to his Arnhem Land homeland.
10. Follow the AIDC Indigenous Creators Program: In March 2026, this program in Naarm (Melbourne) showcases new documentary and factual projects from a fresh wave of First Nations storytellers.
