by FilmInk Staff
The Focus on Ability Short Film Festival is set to inspire audiences nationwide this September and October, with a series of free public screenings showcasing this year’s remarkable entrants from Australia and around the world, in the lead-up to the annual awards night.
Now in its 17th year, the festival, presented by NOVA Employment, has grown to incredible new heights, with 283 finalists from 25 countries, all coming together to celebrate ability and filmmaking. Focus On Ability is a global platform for stories that celebrate the achievements, creativity and resilience of people with disability.
A selection of the finalists’ films will be screened in cinemas, theatres, and community venues across Australia, as well as online for international audiences to enjoy. This year’s festival program features an inspiring and creative mix of drama, documentary, and animation, each offering a unique perspective on inclusion, diversity, and human connection. Screenings will include opportunities to meet the filmmakers and engage in discussions about representation in the film industry.
Festival Director Martin Wren OAM says this year’s line-up promises to be one of the most moving yet; “Every year, we see filmmakers push the boundaries of storytelling to challenge perceptions and highlight ability over disability. These films don’t just entertain—they start conversations, open hearts, and change minds.”
Full details on the screenings are below and online HERE. All screenings are free, but registration is essential.
2025 FOCUS ON ABILITY SHORT FILM FESTIVAL – SCREENING DATES
Brisbane – Day
Date: Tuesday 2 September 2025
Time: 12pm – 2pm
Location: PIP Theatre, 20 Park Rd, Milton, QLD 4064
Register – HERE
Brisbane – Evening
Date: Tuesday 2 September 2025
Time: 6pm – 8.30pm
Location: PIP Theatre, 20 Park Rd, Milton, QLD 4064
Register – HERE
Sydney
Date: Wednesday 10 September 2025
Time: 10.30am – 1pm
Location: Liverpool Catholic Club – The Theatre, 424 – 458 Hoxton Park Rd, Prestons, NSW 2170
Register – HERE
Canberra
Date: Friday 12 September 2025
Time: 10.30am – 12.30pm
Location: National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula, ACT 2601
Register – HERE
Adelaide
Date: Wednesday 17 September 2025
Time: 11am – 1pm
Location: Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide, 65 Hindley St, Adelaide, SA 5000
Register – HERE
Fremantle
Date: Thursday 18 September 2025
Time: 11am – 1pm
Location: WA Maritime Museum, Victoria Quay Rd, Fremantle, WA 6160
Register – HERE
Melbourne
Date: Tuesday 7 October 2025
Time: 10.30am – 1pm
Location: Crown Towers, Level 1 River Room, 8 Whiteman St, Southbank, VIC 3006
Register – HERE
About the Focus On Ability Short Film Festival
The Focus on Ability™ Short Film Festival (FOA), presented by NOVA Employment, invites filmmakers worldwide to highlight the talents of individuals with disabilities through short films. In 2024, the festival achieved a huge 256 finalists from 20 countries.
Founded in 2009 by NOVA Employment CEO Martin Wren, the festival aims to challenge stereotypes and showcase the diverse abilities of individuals with disabilities on a global stage. With over 3.1 million views and growing, FOA provides an exceptional platform for emerging filmmakers and amplifies the voices of individuals with disabilities.
Some Major sponsors include NOVA Employment, International Day of People with Disability, Toshiba, Toyota, Department of Health & Aged Care and the Willoughby Council.
