MIFF

MIFF and the AFL present: Footy Shorts, supported by VicScreen

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VicScreen logo

MIFF and the AFL, supported by VicScreen, are rebooting the Footy Shorts program. This initiative offers emerging Victorian filmmakers the chance to receive valuable mentorship and to shoot short-form documentaries centred on the love and connection people have to Australia’s game. The finalists’ films will have their world premiere on the silver screen at the iconic Melbourne International Film Festival between 7 and 24 August 2025.

We are encouraging filmmakers to create authentic, emotionally resonant stories that capture the deep love, traditions, myths and connections people share through Australian Rules Football – whether as players, fans, families or communities – showcasing how the game, across its many different forms, unites and shapes Australian life.

Four short film treatments will be selected to go into production, with the nominated film teams receiving professional development via mentorship from experienced representatives from VicScreen, the AFL and MIFF.

The four finalists will receive a $20,000 production budget per project as well as archive access and distribution from the AFL and MIFF.

As part of this initiative, the AFL will provide applicants:

  • access to AFL archive materials
  • support in accessing the AFL’s clubs.

Please submit project details here. Applications close 11.59pm, Monday 24 March 2025.

Submission Details

  • Applicants must submit a short film pitch document that contains:
    • A creative treatment (approx. 2 pages) in response to the brief
    • A short statement regarding participant access (whether secured or unsecured)
    • The proposed timeline
    • The proposed budget and production methodology
    • CVs of all key team members.
  • Please note the AFL can assist with access to clubs. If you are submitting a project based on a club or player, it is not expected that you have secured access prior to submitting your project.
  • Submissions will be assessed on the strength of the idea in relation to the brief and the viability of the proposal to meet the budget and schedule.

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Terms and conditions apply.

For further information, please email miff@miff.com.au.