The Adelaide Film Festival Board proudly presents the Don Dunstan Award, recognising an exceptional individual who has made an outstanding contribution to Australian screen culture.

As Premier of South Australia, Don Dunstan led an ambitious cultural agenda that inspired a nation. He advocated for diversity in storytelling and promoted the state’s cultural vibrancy, establishing the first government film agency, the South Australian Film Corporation.

The Award honours his legacy with previous recipients including Don McAlpine, Andrew Bovell, Judy Davis, Rolf de Heer, Freda Glynn, David Dhalatnghu Gulpilil AM, Scott Hicks, David Jowsey, Dennis O’Rourke, Bruna Papandrea, and the combined contributions of David Stratton AM and Margaret Pomeranz AM.

2025 Don Dunstan Award Recipient

This year's Don Dunstan Award recipient is acclaimed filmmaker Robert Connolly. His 30-year film career encompasses dozens of films and demonstrates his belief that creators empower themselves and control authorship by being entrepreneurs.

As a director, writer and/or producer, he has made big hits, crowd-pleasers for young people, and politically important films. Think The Dry (2021), Paper Planes (2015), Balibo (2009) and The Boys (1998).

As an innovator and enabler, he has assisted new generations to diversify and refresh the industry. Think Pasa Faho (2025), Sweet As (2022) and The Turning (2013).

A specially commissioned essay by Sandy George on Robert Connolly’s contribution to Australian filmmaking will be available soon.