Queensland proudly hosted the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) Awards, often referred to as the “Oscars of Australia.” The glamorous event marked a significant milestone for the state, bringing the nation’s most prestigious celebration of film and television to its shores.
Held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, the ceremony brought together Australia’s biggest stars, filmmakers, and industry professionals to honor outstanding achievements in cinema, television, and digital media. The AACTA Awards, known for their long history of recognizing excellence in the arts, had previously been based in Sydney but found a vibrant new home in Queensland this year.
The decision to move the awards to Queensland was met with enthusiasm by local officials and industry stakeholders. Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk described the move as a testament to the state’s growing reputation as a hub for film and television production. “Queensland has long been the backdrop for some of the most iconic productions, and now we have the honor of hosting Australia’s premier screen awards,” she said during her opening remarks.
Queensland has steadily built its reputation as a film and television powerhouse, with its diverse landscapes and state-of-the-art studios attracting major international productions. Recent blockbusters like Thor: Ragnarok, Elvis, and Pirates of the Caribbean were filmed in the region, showcasing its ability to host projects of all scales. This growing prominence made Queensland a natural choice for the AACTA Awards’ new base.
The 2024 ceremony was a dazzling affair, with celebrities gracing the red carpet in stunning attire and fans gathering to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars. The awards recognized the best in Australian film and television, with categories spanning drama, comedy, documentary, and short-form content. Notable winners included Cate Blanchett, who took home Best Actress for her role in the critically acclaimed Tár, and Baz Luhrmann, who received the Best Director award for Elvis.
The event also spotlighted emerging talent, celebrating the achievements of up-and-coming artists who are shaping the future of Australia’s screen industry. Special tributes were paid to industry legends, including a lifetime achievement award honoring iconic actor Bryan Brown for his decades-long contribution to Australian cinema.
Beyond the awards themselves, the move to Queensland reflects broader efforts to decentralize Australia’s entertainment industry, traditionally concentrated in Sydney and Melbourne. Bringing the AACTA Awards to Brisbane underscores the state’s commitment to fostering creative talent and building a thriving cultural economy.
The relocation of the AACTA Awards has already had a positive impact on Queensland’s economy and cultural identity. The influx of stars, media, and tourism surrounding the event showcased Brisbane’s capability to host world-class events and solidified its status as a cultural capital.
As the curtain closed on the 2024 ceremony, there was a palpable sense of excitement for what the future holds for Queensland’s burgeoning film and television industry. Hosting the AACTA Awards represents not just a celebration of Australia’s cinematic achievements but also a bold step forward in establishing Queensland as a global destination for the arts.
