The Focus On Ability Short Film Festival will bring screenings to Milton, showcasing local and international films that highlight the abilities of people with disability.
Screenings in Milton
Milton’s PIP Theatre will host two screenings of the 2025 Focus On Ability Short Film Festival on Tuesday, 2 September. The daytime session runs from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., followed by an evening session from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Both are free to attend with registration required. Audiences will have the chance to see a curated range of films from this year’s finalists.
Festival Background
The Focus On Ability Short Film Festival, now in its 17th year, was established in 2009. It was created to highlight the achievements and talents of people with disability through short films. In 2025, the festival features 283 finalists from 25 countries, with submissions required to be under five minutes.
National and Global Reach
Screenings will take place across Australia in September and October, including Sydney, Canberra, Adelaide, Fremantle, and Melbourne. A red carpet awards event will be held on Sunday, 16 November 2025 at The Concourse in Chatswood. Beyond Australia, the festival also tours New Zealand and has been featured at international disability conferences, strengthening its reputation as a global movement.
Purpose and Impact
The program includes drama, documentary, and animation, encouraging conversations about inclusion and representation. Past festivals have reached more than 4 million film views across over 170 countries. Some works have also been broadcast on national television following the awards ceremony, giving exposure to both emerging and established filmmakers.
What’s Next
With screenings free to the public and supported by online access, the 2025 festival aims to continue expanding its reach. By focusing on ability, the event offers audiences an opportunity to engage with stories that reshape perceptions and promote inclusivity across diverse communities.
Published 27-Aug-2025
