Australian Life Exhibition

Discover the moments that put contemporary Australia in focus in this year's Australian Life Exhibition.

These 20 striking images capture the heart of our nation, highlighting resilience, deep cultural connections and the shared experiences that shape us. Together, these photographs reflect the beautiful diversity of our modern national identity.

About Australian Life

Over 24 years of storytelling, Australian Life remains one of the country's largest and most democratic photography prizes. The collection brings together powerful images taken by amateurs and professional photographers over the last 12 months.

The finalists and major winners taking home prizes worth up to $10,000 are chosen by a panel of professional photographers, artists and curators.

Vote for your favourite photo by 11.59pm, Monday 5 October to help select the People's Choice Award winner. The photographer who receives the most votes will receive an OM System camera pack valued at $5,298.

2026 Finalists

• Talbert Anthony

• George Chan

• Elise Derwin

• Emily Dynes

• Kerry Faulkner

• Vada Gock

• Natalie Grono

• Jessica Hromas

• Ingvar Kenne

• Joe Kennedy

• Andrew Leontarou

• Bec Lorrimer

• Isabella Melody Moore

• Andrew Quilty

• Audrey Richardson

• Steven Siewert

• Julie Spencer

• Lesley Spencer

• Richard Sydenham

• John Winter

Australian Life is produced by the City of Sydney as part of Art & About Sydney, an ongoing program of temporary art projects in unusual spaces. 

Australian Life is sponsored by OM System.

Finalist photos pictured:

• Fire Line by Emily Dynes

• Untitled, Western Line, Sydney. by Andrew Quilty

• Summer Between Us by Natalie Grono

• Diwali Festival by Steven Siewert