Young filmmakers to cast spotlight on road safety

Published date: 10 Aug 2020

Aspiring young filmmakers have the chance to bring their ideas to the screen in a short film featuring Australian actor Firass Dirani, as part of a Transport Accident Commission competition.

The TAC has partnered with the Village Cinemas for the third annual Split Second youth film competition and this year the stakes are higher, with Australian actor and Logie winner Dirani offering his talents as part of the prize.

Entrants are required to submit an outline of a 45-second film idea addressing the issue of distracted driving.

According to findings from TAC’s Road Safety Monitor, younger drivers (aged 18 – 25 years) are significantly more likely than older drivers to be distracted while driving (82% compared to 76%).

Victorian filmmakers aged between 18 and 25 are eligible to enter the competition, which opens on 6 August 2020.

A panel of judges from the TAC and film and advertising industry will select a winner, who will receive a $50,000 production budget to make their film, with help of Dirani and award-winning production company Airbag.

The winner will also receive $5,000 in prizemoney and their film will feature during Village Cinema screenings across Victoria.

Last year’s winner Alyssa De Leo, an RMIT student, achieved an internship with creative agency Taboo following her winning entry The Afterlife Bar, depicting well-known historical figures who were taken before their time.

The competition is open until 23 September 2020 with the winner announced 16 October 2020. For more information or to enter, visit www.tac.vic.gov.au/splitsecond

Quotes attributable to Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Ben Carroll:

“Young people are some of Victoria’s most vulnerable road users and this competition highlights the importance of avoiding distractions while driving.”

“Mobile phone use is emerging as one of the major factors causing death and serious injuries.”

Quotes attributable TAC Engagement Senior Manager, Meg Jacobs:

“We urge everyone to prioritise safety when using the roads - the message is to slow down, plan your journey and don’t take risks.”

“We want to empower young people to have conversations with their friends about making safe choices when they’re behind the wheel.”