RRI.CO.ID - Jakarta: The Australia–Indonesia Film Festival (FSAI) 2026 will take place across 11 cities in Indonesia. The government has hailed the annual event as a platform to strengthen collaboration within the film industries of both countries through knowledge exchange, talent development, and the expansion of creative networks.

“FSAI serves as a platform that brings industry players together, allowing them to connect and explore collaboration opportunities,” said Vice Minister of Creative Economy and Vice Head of the Creative Economy Agency, Irene Umar, during the launch of the FSAI 2026 series in Jakarta, Wednesday, 22 April 2026.

The film industry holds economic potential that extends beyond production and screening, extending into various high-value derivative sectors. The Vice Minister emphasized that FSAI acts as a catalyst connecting creative industry players from both countries to expand cooperation.

“A single film can grow into other sectors such as licensing and derivative products. This highlights the vast economic potential that can be generated. Collaboration opens broader access, not only in domestic markets but also globally. This aligns with efforts to position the creative economy as the new engine of growth,” she stated.

Meanwhile, the Australian Ambassador to Indonesia, Roderick Bruce Brazier, noted that the 11th edition of FSAI reflects the consistent cooperation between the two countries in the creative sector. Scheduled to run from May 8–23, 2026, FSAI will be held in 11 cities: Jakarta, Manado, Semarang, Medan, Bogor, Makassar, Surabaya, Kupang, Banjarmasin, Mataram, and Yogyakarta.

“FSAI has evolved into a collaborative platform that connects filmmakers from Australia and Indonesia while reaching audiences across multiple cities,” Brazier said.

The festival will feature film screenings, masterclasses, and capacity-building programs for industry players and creative communities. This year’s lineup includes seven main films—five Australian and two Indonesian titles, Rangga & Cinta and JUMBO. FSAI will also showcase short films by alumni of the Australia Awards program as part of efforts to strengthen creative talent.

The Ministry of Creative Economy views FSAI as part of a broader effort to enhance international collaboration, build talent capacity, and expand the global distribution of Indonesian films. FSAI 2026 is expected to spur tangible partnership between Indonesian and Australian industry.