The Focus Story
For the 18th consecutive year, NOVA Employment proudly presents the Focus on Ability Short Film Festival — and entries are now open for 2026.
Focus on Ability invites filmmakers of all experience levels to celebrate the abilities of people with disabilities through powerful, authentic storytelling. Whether you’re an emerging filmmaker, student, professional, or someone with a story to share, this festival is your opportunity to create meaningful impact through film.
Since its founding in 2009 by NOVA Employment CEO Martin Wren OAM, the festival has been built on the belief that film can challenge perceptions and change attitudes. Alongside Paula Duncan AM, a respected leader in the Australian film and television industry and a passionate advocate for inclusion, the festival continues to champion stories that deserve to be seen and heard around the world.
Focus on Ability has reached audiences in more than 170 countries, generated over 4 million film views, and consistently receives feedback from viewers whose attitudes and understanding have been transformed by the stories they’ve watched. With films screened nationally and internationally — and selected entries broadcast on national television — the festival offers unparalleled exposure for filmmakers and powerful visibility for the voices represented on screen.
The 2026 festival will once again culminate in a glamorous red carpet awards event, celebrating filmmakers whose work stands out for creativity, authenticity, and impact. With huge cash and prizes available across multiple categories, entries are judged by a professional panel and supported by a vibrant online voting process.
Over the past few years, Focus on Ability films have been screened across Australia, Thailand, Spain, New Zealand, Malawi, Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, and the United Kingdom, continuing to grow a global audience now exceeding 4 million people.
Call for Entries – Focus on Ability 2026
Entries are open now and close on July 1, 2026.
Meet the Team
The Focus on Ability film festival is involves a huge amount of effort from a large number of talented individuals. Meet some of those people here.
Martin Wren
FOA Creator
In 2009, CEO of NOVA Employment Martin Wren began the festival with a belief in the ability of people with disability, and the goal of bringing that belief to the world through the medium of film. Martin recognised the power of film to challenge people's fixed beliefs and perceptions about the lives and abilities of people with disability around the world.
Anne Goyer
General Manager
Anne is the General Manager of the Focus on Ability Short Film Festival, bringing fresh leadership and vision to FOA. Anne is passionate about championing stories that highlight the talents, resilience, and creativity of people with disability. In this new role, she will oversee the direction and growth of the festival, ensuring it continues to amplify inclusive voices through film.
Paula Duncan
FOA Ambassador
Paula Duncan, known for both her success in the Australian film and television industry and passion for supporting people with disability, has worked tirelessly to bring this festival to the world.
Ryan Goodwin
Creative Director
Ryan Goodwin studied as a journalist and has used his curiosity and ability to talk to people to encourage film makers from all walks of life to tell their story via the medium of film.
