The Multicultural Film Festival (MFF) is calling for submissions, inviting filmmakers to share stories that highlight the essence of multicultural Australia. With over 300 ancestries represented in the nation and the world’s oldest continuous cultures, the MFF is a vibrant celebration of diversity through the art of storytelling.
The 2025 festival promises to be an extraordinary showcase of short films, each exploring the nuances of cultural diversity. Filmmakers—whether seasoned veterans or fresh voices—are encouraged to craft original works that shine a light on the complexities of multicultural life. Submissions are open until 10 March 2025, with entries between five and twelve minutes to be submitted via FilmFreeway.
Victorian, national, and international filmmakers are welcome to participate, with special awards for films that look into refugee and asylum seeker experiences. The festival’s highlights include a premiere screening in Melbourne during Refugee Week in June 2025 and the opportunity for winning films to gain a broader audience via platforms like SBS OnDemand and curated screening events.
The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC), in partnership with Swinburne University of Technology, is the driving force behind this initiative. They are keen to see interpretations of multiculturalism that break away from formulas, encouraging personal stories or explorations of Australia’s rich cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity.
Award categories cater to a broad spectrum of talent, including Victorian entrants, national participants, and international creators. There is also a People’s Choice Award for Victorian filmmakers, decided through live voting at the premiere screening, and a Chairperson’s Refugee Stories Award to honour films addressing refugee or asylum seeker experiences.
Winning entries will receive prizes, official laurels, and the chance to feature on the VMC’s YouTube channel and in screenings promoted to government and community organisations. This is a chance for filmmakers to reach beyond the festival, sharing their stories with a wide audience.
The festival, proudly sponsored by SBS, is a celebration of the cultural mosaic that defines Australia. For anyone with a recording device and a story to tell, the MFF is an opportunity to bring unique perspectives to the screen.
Submissions are open now. Bring your vision to life and join the festival that champions diversity and creativity.
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