Every year, the Focus on Ability Short Film Festival shines a light on powerful stories that challenge perceptions and celebrate the abilities of people with disability. 2025 was no exception. From heartfelt documentaries to creative short films, this year’s winners captured audiences, sparked conversations, and inspired change.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout films and filmmakers from across Australia, New Zealand, and around the world.
🌟 School Section Highlights (Australia & New Zealand)
The school category once again proved that the next generation of filmmakers is bursting with talent and insight.
🎥 Dropkicks – Eastern Hills Senior High School (WA)
Judges Choice – Short Film School Winner
A bold and engaging short film that stood out for its creativity and storytelling, Dropkicks delivers both impact and entertainment in equal measure.
🎥 Everything Changed – Balgowlah Boys Secondary College (NSW)
Judges Choice – Documentary School Winner
A moving documentary that captures real experiences with authenticity, encouraging viewers to reflect and connect on a deeper level.
🎥 As You Are – Sydney Technical High School (NSW)
Most Online Votes School Winner
This audience favourite resonated widely, reminding us of the importance of acceptance and embracing individuality.
🎭 Sensorium – Alex O’Callaghan (VIC)
Best Actor School Winner
An outstanding performance that brought depth and emotion to the screen, showcasing incredible young talent.
👉 Watch these films and more here.
🎬 Open Category – Australian Talent
The open category showcased a diverse mix of filmmakers, each telling unique and impactful stories.
🏆 Pieced Together – Tas Guichard (NSW)
Judges Choice – Short Film Open Winner
A beautifully crafted story that highlights resilience and connection, leaving a lasting impression.
🎥 Where the World is Quiet – Benjamin Huggins Strum & Grace Tame (NSW)
Judges Choice – Documentary Open Winner
A powerful documentary that invites audiences into a quieter, deeply personal world.
💥 Never Stopped Believin – Ben Rosenberg (QLD)
Impact Award
An uplifting and inspiring film that lives up to its name, encouraging perseverance and positivity.
❤️ I Choose Happiness – Peter Chambers (VIC)
Most Online Votes Open Winner
A crowd favourite that celebrates optimism and choice in the face of challenges.
🚀 Spaceships – Matthew Tripney (QLD)
Best Actor Open Winner
A standout performance that captured audiences and judges alike.
🎬 Craft Excellence Awards
- Best Director: Larapinta End To End – Larapinta Adaptive (TAS)
- Best Producer: The Wednesday Crew – John Cavallaro (QLD)
- Best Screenwriter: Dandelion Bouquet – Tayla Richardson (VIC)
👉 Explore all open category winners.
🌍 International Stories That Inspired
The international category continues to grow, bringing powerful global perspectives to the festival.
🌟 Audio Description – Lee Pugsley & Luke Salewski (USA)
Judges Choice – Short Film International Winner
A creative and insightful film that highlights accessibility in storytelling.
🎥 Sight Unseen – Able (New Zealand)
Judges Choice – Documentary International Winner
A compelling documentary that offers a unique perspective and leaves a lasting impact.
👏 Other Standouts Include:
- Forced Perspective – Becca Schall (USA)
- Singlehanded – Dustin Reynolds (Hawaii)
- That’s So Me – Dutra, Cruz & Ocdy (Brazil) – Most Online Votes Winner
👉 Watch international winners.
Why These Films Matter
Each of these films does more than tell a story—they challenge assumptions, celebrate diversity, and promote inclusion. They remind us that storytelling has the power to shift perspectives and create real-world impact.
Whether you’re a student picking up a camera for the first time or an experienced filmmaker, these works show what’s possible when creativity meets purpose.
Ready to Be Part of the Next Chapter?
Feeling inspired? Start planning your film for the next Focus on Ability Short Film Festival. Your story could be the one that sparks change, starts conversations, and reaches audiences around the world.
👉 Watch the 2025 winners and get inspired today.