Sydney Program Helping To Make Filmmaking Accessible To All Opens Enrolments
The award-winning Bus Stop Films’ Accessible Filmmaking Programs is open for 2026 enrolments.
A not-for-profit social enterprise, Bus Stop Films uses filmmaking to make the world more inclusive for people living with intellectual disability or autism.
The Accessible Filmmaking Program will offer 22 workshops scheduled next year–in 15 locations across Australia, including all capital cities, and key regional centers such as Launceston, Cairns, Gold Coast, and Coffs Harbour.
What is the Bus Stop Films Accessible Filmmaking Program?
Started in Sydney in 2009, the 40 week program gives first-hand experience learning film in a school-like experience for young adults living with an intellectual disability or Autism.
It allows participants to experience how professional filmmakers work, visit film production companies, immerse themselves in creating short films, all while gaining social confidence, friendships, and job preparedness.
In partnerships with Australia’s leading film schools, educational institutions, and community arts spaces, workshops are led by passionate filmmakers and disability support workers.
Tracey Corbin-Matchett OAM, CEO of Bus Stop Films, expressed her excitement about the opportunities the program offers.
“The program is at the core of what we offer to our participants and the broader community,” said Corbin-Matchett. “Having this opportunity in national locations allows greater access to many people who could benefit from real time screen industry experiences, skill development and building lasting friendships from within the groups. Bus Stop’s strong network of program partners means people with disabilities can now engage in a skill building program in a nurturing and supportive environment.”
Projects made through the program have proudly showcased at Oscar-qualifying festivals worldwide in the USA, Canada, Japan and New Zealand and broadcast on TV.
Program offers experience from acclaimed film industry professionals
Acclaimed director Kriv Stender (Red Dog) and talent such as Chloe Hayden, Dylan Alcott AM, and Bus Stop’s Ambassador, celebrity chef Miguel Maestre, have all collaborated and taught program participants.
Past program participants have worked on celebrated films and shows such as Netflix’s Heartbreak High, ABC’s The Assembly, Anyone But You starring Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell, Marvel’s Thor: Love and Thunder, and commercials for brands including Bonds — all supported by Bus Stop Employment.
Not to mention, Bus Stop’s very own feature film, Boss Cat, which is currently in post-production.
Bus Stop’s General Manager of Programs Laura Imbruglia said the program believes “that creativity can change lives, open minds, and unlock possibilities.”
“With 100% of participants making new connections and over 70% reporting improvements in confidence and work-readiness, this program is proof that when we create inclusive spaces with the right support, extraordinary things happen. We are thrilled to be supported by a robust network of community and program partners nationally, who are deeply invested in being the change they want to see.
“We’re not just making films, we’re disrupting an industry where people with disabilities are vastly under-represented and creating pathways to meaningful participation and employment in the creative industries.”
In 2026, the Bus Stop Films’ is open for participants aged 17+ to join the Accessible Filmmaking Program. Particularly for people with a passion for filmmaking and live with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities or autism.
Bus Stop is hosting a series of drop-in sessions across an Open Weekend, starting Saturday 18 October. Enrolments close 9 January 2026.
You can learn more and enrol here.
