The search for Australia's next teen comedy sensation!

Melbourne International Comedy Festival's national competition and workshop program, Class Clowns, is back in 2026 to inspire, engage and elevate young comedians aged 14–18.

Held across Term 1, this free and fun program is open to all humorous teens, as we cover the country to unearth the next generation of comedic talent.

All it takes is 3-5 minutes of original material in any genre – whether it’s stand-up, sketch, solo, group, musical or physical comedy – the possibilities are endless! Each competition heat includes a FREE 2-hour workshop where participants will fine-tune their performances with the guidance of a professional comedian before taking to the stage.

The funniest acts will earn a trip to Melbourne to compete in the National Grand Final as part of the 2026 Melbourne International Comedy Festival! The Grand Final winner will walk away with a $1,500 cash prize, a workshop package for their school, and bragging rights as Australia’s funniest teen!

Whether you’re the wittiest in your class, or you know a naturally hilarious teenager, don’t let this opportunity pass by! Visit classclowns.com.au to register and find out more.

Participation is FREE!

Registrations for the 2026 competition will open in Term 4 of this year. HOW IT WORKS:

Step 1: Teachers, parents or guardians register students to participate.

Step 2: Students write or develop 3-5 minutes of comedy material, ahead of the workshop.

Step 3: 2-hour workshops are held around the country during across February and March, where a professional comedian will help students rehearse and refine their acts.

Step 4: Following the workshop, students have the chance to perform at a Class Clowns Heat in front of a live audience at a show hosted by a professional comedian.

Step 5: The funniest entrants are selected by guest judges to go through to State Finals.

Step 6: State Final winners are invited to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival to participate in the National Grand Final for a chance to win a cash prize of $1,500 for themselves AND a $1,000 workshop package for their school.

THE RULES:

• Class Clowns is open to all Australian secondary students in Years 9-12 or 14-18 years old.
• Students must have a 3–5-minute act ready to go, that they would like to rehearse and refine.
• A maximum of three people can be part of each act.
• Routines should be original, well-rehearsed, avoid the offensive, and funny!
• Any style of comedy is welcome. Sketch acts, stand-up, physical, musical, or anything in between!

VIDEO RESOURCES

Want to try comedy, but not sure where to start? How do you write material? What if you bomb on stage? What is the secret to success?

We think the best people to answer these questions are the comedians who’ve “been there, done that”!

We asked some of Australia’s funniest folk for tips and tricks to get you started on your comedy journey and they’ve given candid answers to tricky questions. Join Rhys Nicholson, Dane Simpson, Cal Wilson, Ivan Aristeguieta, Michelle Brasier, Geraldine Hickey, Claire Hooper and Annie Louey, as they guide you through writing jokes, stagecraft and everything in between.

YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@ClassClowns

Why Try Comedy: https://youtu.be/1OM-IM7d9GA