The 'Real Australia' competition run by the Australian Tourist Commission seeks to showcase the uniquely Australian lifestyle by showing locals enjoying a truly Australian pastime.
The winning photographer will receive a holiday on the Great Barrier Reef and the best shots will be used in future promotional campaigns.
Ken Boundy, the commission's managing director, said the idea came from the fact that many visitors to the country expressed an interest in meeting real Australians doing everyday things. He said the perception of the great Aussie lifestyle and its citizens' sense of fun appealed to the overseas travel market.
"The indication from our key travel markets is that the people they meet in Australia are the highlight of their visit," said Boundy.
Tourism promotions have included images of everyday and famous Australians since the 1930s, including comedy actor Paul Hogan in the 1980s and more recently swimming star Ian Thorpe. The new images will be used in future television, internet or print promotions, said Boundy.
Visitors to Australia fell two per cent to 4.65 million in the 12 months to July 31 this year, compared to 4.73 million for the previous period.
The highest number of visitors for the period, 1.22 million, came from Northeast Asia including China and Hong Kong.