World Press Photo exhibition to open in Sydney this week

By Tim Levy | 3 June 2026

The World Press Photo Exhibition 2026 is returning to the State Library of New South Wales from 6 June to 19 July, offering Sydney audiences an uncompromising view of of the unending challenges that humans, and our planet face.

In addition, the exhibition is also on display at Brisbane's powerhouse until June 21.

The exhibitions showcase the results from the 69th World Press Photo Contest, where the 42 winners were chosen by a jury of 31 professionals that reviewed more than 57,376 photographs entered by 3,747 photographers from 141 countries.

Title: Drone Wars. © David Guttenfelder, The New York Times.
A soldier from Ukraine’s 93rd Brigade scans for Russian FPV drones while speeding through Kostyantynivka, a strategic gateway to Ukraine’s last major defensive belt in Donetsk. Kostyantynivka, Ukraine, 19 June 2025. — Title: Drone Wars. © David Guttenfelder, The New York Times. A soldier from Ukraine’s 93rd Brigade scans for Russian FPV drones while speeding through Kostyantynivka, a strategic gateway to Ukraine’s last major defensive belt in Donetsk. Kostyantynivka, Ukraine, 19 June 2025.

Since its inception in 1955, when a group of Dutch photographers organised an international contest in Amsterdam, World Press Photo has grown into the world’s most prestigious benchmark for visual journalism.

Decades later, its core mission remains unchanged: to champion high-quality photojournalism and defend the freedom of the press.

The resulting collection is a powerful reflection of the complexities of our current world, capturing everything from the escalating climate crisis and political upheaval to the deep human cost of modern conflict.

IMAGE WARNING – The following images contain graphic coverage of recent events, including scenes of trauma and deceased individuals. We advise viewer discretion.

The images on display are a testament to the extreme risks and unwavering dedication of these press and documentary photographers. Photojournalism is increasingly dangerous work; these professionals routinely step into active conflict zones, navigate hostile political environments, and endure profound personal hazards.

Title: Witnessing Gaza. © Saher Alghorra, for The New York Times.
Tamer Hassan al-Shafei and his family break their Ramadan fast in the remains of their home. Food shortages meant only basics were served instead of the usual spread. Beit Lahia, Gaza Strip, 4 March 2025. — Title: Witnessing Gaza. © Saher Alghorra, for The New York Times. Tamer Hassan al-Shafei and his family break their Ramadan fast in the remains of their home. Food shortages meant only basics were served instead of the usual spread. Beit Lahia, Gaza Strip, 4 March 2025.

In 2025 alone, over 120 journalists and media workers were killed. And this number doesn't take into account the many wounded. These journalists do so out of a fierce commitment to bearing witness, ensuring that history is not made in the dark.

Title: Los Angeles on Fire. © Ethan Swope, for Associated Press.
The Palisades Fire ravages a neighborhood amid high winds. The Los Angeles blazes inflicted between $28 and $53.8 billion in property damage, disrupting thousands of local businesses. Los Angeles, California, United States, 7 January 2025. — Title: Los Angeles on Fire. © Ethan Swope, for Associated Press. The Palisades Fire ravages a neighborhood amid high winds. The Los Angeles blazes inflicted between $28 and $53.8 billion in property damage, disrupting thousands of local businesses. Los Angeles, California, United States, 7 January 2025.

Beyond documenting headline-grabbing crises, the true power of this exhibition lies in its ability to illuminate 'hidden lives'.

Through intimate, long-term documentary projects, these photographers grant us access to quiet corners of resilience, marginalised communities, and personal stories of survival that would otherwise remain invisible to the global public.

Title: Wedding in the Flood. © Aaron Favila, Associated Press.
Newlyweds share a kiss as guests cheer. The couple have been together for ten years. According to Verdillo, “This is just one of the struggles that we’ve overcome.” Malolos, Bulacan province, Philippines, 22 July 2025. — Title: Wedding in the Flood. © Aaron Favila, Associated Press. Newlyweds share a kiss as guests cheer. The couple have been together for ten years. According to Verdillo, “This is just one of the struggles that we’ve overcome.” Malolos, Bulacan province, Philippines, 22 July 2025.

These images masterfully bridge the gap between abstract global statistics, and literally focus in on the nuanced realities of individual human dignity. They often reveal the human face of citizens on the ground level – far from the centres of power.

For local photographers, photojournalists, and visual storytellers, this exhibition is an essential pilgrimage. Yes – it is a difficult, confronting exhibition, but it is also a masterclass in framing, narrative depth, and emotional honesty.

Title: When Giants Fall © Halden Krog.
Professional hunters shoot a family of elephants identified for culling. Sango Wildlife Conservancy, Savé Valley Conservancy, Zimbabwe, 23 October 2025. — Title: When Giants Fall © Halden Krog. Professional hunters shoot a family of elephants identified for culling. Sango Wildlife Conservancy, Savé Valley Conservancy, Zimbabwe, 23 October 2025.

You can find out more on the World Press website.

Or visit the State Library of NSW website here.