This year's Breath of Fresh Air Film Festival has opened the judging panel to the public, with the November event to allow film lovers from across the planet to   have their say on what makes Tasmanian films great.

Those interested are encouraged to put their name down to judge the festival's short film entrants between today and August 1, with the top films to be shown at Breath of Fresh Air in Launceston between November 6 ad 9.

Festival director Owen Tilbury said the concept would encourage more support for local short films. ``Breath of Fresh Air is about seeing things differently,'' he said.

``Our judging process is about people purchasing the right to be an expert judge.

``People can go to our website, and the joy of power and electronics means they can upload their films on our website. This allows films to be judged  anywhere in the world.''

While the concept is unique, Mr Tilbury said he was once again expecting a number of high-quality short films at this year's festival, which will premiere on the big screen before feature films at BOFA.

Makers of short films are able to submit their work by visiting www.bofa.com.au.