Greig Fraser announced as the recipient of the AACTA Byron Kennedy Award for 2025

GREIG FRASER ANNOUNCED AS THE RECIPIENT OF THE 2025 AACTA BYRON KENNEDY AWARD 

The Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) is thrilled to announce renowned Australian cinematographer, Greig Fraser as the recipient of the prestigious AACTA Byron Kennedy Award for 2025. Greig Fraser will be recognised for his outstanding contribution to the screen industry at the 2025 AACTA Awards presented by Foxtel Group, Friday 7 February at HOTA on the Gold Coast, a destination renowned for its beauty and vibrant cultural scene. 

Established in 1984, the Byron Kennedy Award is bestowed upon individuals or organizations in the screen industry whose work epitomises innovation, vision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Named in honour of Dr. George Miller's filmmaking partner and MAD MAX co-creator Byron Kennedy, the award includes a cash prize of $10,000 and is determined by an appointed jury.

Greig Fraser, ASC ACS, is celebrated as one of the world’s most accomplished and innovative cinematographers, known for his ability to shape unforgettable visual narratives that elevate the art of storytelling. The AACTA Byron Kennedy Award recognizes Fraser’s extraordinary contributions to the screen industry, his pioneering use of technology, and his distinct visual style that has redefined cinematic experiences worldwide.

Fraser’s impressive career is marked by groundbreaking achievements, including an Academy Award for Dune, a BAFTA win, and an Emmy Award for his revolutionary work on The Mandalorian. From shaping the gritty realism of Zero Dark Thirty to crafting the atmospheric landscapes of The Batman and the emotional intimacy of Lion, Fraser’s cinematography has a profound impact on the story and takes audiences on a transformative journey. Guests will have the chance to go behind the scenes of Fraser’s impressive career with an exclusive deconstruction of some of his most acclaimed work at the upcoming AACTA Festival. Visit aactafestival.com to RSVP for your ticket to an exclusive in conversation event with Greig Fraser, Saturday February 8th at HOTA. 

Dr. George Miller had this to say of Fraser’s impact, “Greig Fraser is the latest in the succession of eminent Australian cinematographers who have made their mark on world cinema. He is dauntless in his embrace of new technologies in the cause of his art and consistently brings a narratively powerful aesthetic to the work.”

Fraser’s innovative approach has also pushed the boundaries of filmmaking technology. His work on The Mandalorian introduced a groundbreaking use of real-time visual effects through LED virtual production, revolutionising the way stories are told on screen. Fraser’s ability to merge artistry and technology exemplifies his commitment to advancing the craft of cinematography.

Greig Fraser said "As a person that tends to spend my professional life toiling in the shadows, being recognised for the Byron Kennedy Award is an incredible honour. This prestigious award has always been presented to the most interesting members our community who I feel embody the spirit of innovation and excellence in film making, so to join that group is wonderful and humbling."

From the epic landscapes of Dune to the emotional depths of Lion, Fraser’s unparalleled ability to capture the heart of a story visually has made him a revered figure in the global screen industry. His work continues to inspire a new generation of filmmakers, solidifying his place as a visionary force in cinema. The AACTA Byron Kennedy Award is recognition of Fraser’s remarkable legacy and ongoing impact on the art of storytelling.

The 2025 AACTA Awards Ceremony will be broadcast in Australia on Channel Ten at 7.30pm AEDT, Friday 7 February. A special extended AACTA Awards broadcast, including all awards from the ceremony, will be available from 7:30pm on Saturday 8 February on BINGE and Foxtel (Famous and available On-Demand). International broadcast details to be announced soon. 

The 2025 AACTA Awards ceremonies will form part of AACTA Festival which will run for 5 days from February 5th - 9th offering a vast range of activities celebrating film, television, and pop culture. Festival goers can enjoy a range of meet the nominee events, in-depth movie deconstructions, interactive workshops, meet-and-greets, music showcases, masterclasses with renowned filmmakers, outdoor screenings, and a variety of family-friendly activities – and for those looking to break into the industry, an expanded Screen Careers Expo presented by Essential Screen Skills will also make its return on Saturday the 8th of February. For more information visit aactafestival.com.

Upcoming Key Dates:

Location: HOTA, Home of the Arts, Gold Coast, Australia

AACTA Awards Industry Gala & After Party: Wednesday 5 February 2025

AACTA Awards Ceremony & Official After Party: Friday 7 February 2025

AACTA Award Broadcast: Channel Ten 7.30pm AEDT, Friday 7 February. Special extended broadcast available from 7:30pm on Saturday 8 February on BINGE and Foxtel (Famous and available On-Demand)

AACTA Festival: Wednesday 5 – Sunday 9 February 2025

For information on the AACTA Festival, AACTA Awards and ticket sales, click here.