$50,000 in prizes up for grabs in 2026 People First Bank Photographic Awards

Flex your creative photography skills and you could win a share of $50,000 in prizes, with entries now open for the 2026 People First Bank Photographic Awards!

Now in its 38th year, this major national competition is free to enter, and open to anyone across Australia, regardless of age or experience level.

Simply grab your camera or your phone and you could be in the running for prizes that include:

• $15,000 for the Theme category “All Kinds of Good”. Good can take many forms. Capture through your lens what “All Kinds of Good’ looks like, feels like, and means to you
• $15,000 for the Open category - any subject, any style
• $5,000 for the Illustrative category for digitally manipulated images
• $5,000 for the best photo taken on a mobile phone
• $5,000 for the CEO’s Choice
• Youth categories for photographers aged 9 and under, 10–13, and 14–17 years.

Acting Chief Customer Officer Michael Töns said the awards celebrate the power of photography to tell stories, spark creativity and capture the spirit of our communities.

“For nearly four decades, the photographic awards have given people the opportunity to share their unique perspectives and see the world through different eyes,” said Mr Töns.

“This year, the themed category All Kinds of Good, invites photographers to capture the everyday moments, people and places that show the good happening all around us.

“Whether you’re picking up a camera for the first time or have years of experience behind the lens, the awards are designed to be accessible and inclusive.

“All you need is a camera or phone, a little imagination and a story to tell.”

Entries close at 5pm AEST on 23 October 2026. Winners will be announced on 23 November, with finalist images featured in exhibitions in Toowoomba and Adelaide later this year.

Full details available at People First Bank Photographic Awards

Credit: Jypsie Cronan, 'Motherhood Against the Elements' Winner, Open Category 2025.