Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF), AFL, and VicScreen have announced that Footy Shorts will return in 2026.
The first Footy Shorts lineup proved a winner with audiences, reaching more than 30,000 viewers across in-cinema screenings at MIFF, the AFL’s Grand Final Footy Fest at Yarra Park and Federation Square during Grand Final week, other film festivals, and across MIFF and AFL’s online channels.
Applications are now open for Footy Shorts, an initiative from MIFF, the AFL, and VicScreen that gives emerging Victorian filmmakers the chance to create a short documentary exploring Australian Rules Football — both on and off the field.
Launched in 2025, Footy Shorts offers the next generation of screen storytellers the chance to capture the deep love, traditions, and connections shared through the game.
To enter, filmmakers are invited to submit a short film treatment that reflects the spirit and connection of Australian Rules Football and explores the role footy plays across diverse experiences and settings.
Four short films will be selected to go into production, with each successful team receiving professional development, a $25,000 production budget and access to the AFL’s archive and Victorian-based AFL clubs.
“There’s nothing more Victorian than film and footy,” Creative Industries Minister Colin Brooks said of the return of Footy Shorts.
“This exciting talent development opportunity will support emerging filmmakers to upskill, gain practical experience, mentoring and screen their work at the nation’s largest film festival.”
AFL executive general manager customer, commercial and technology Bec Haagsma said the league was proud to again be involved in the initiative.
“Aussie Rules connects with people from all different backgrounds, and I can’t wait to see what this year’s filmmakers bring to life on the big screen,” Ms Haagsma said.
To find out more and enter, visit: miff.com.au/footy-shorts
