Melbourne Queer Film Festival – Your Quick Guide

If you love movies that push boundaries and celebrate queer stories, the Melbourne Queer Film Festival (MQFF) is the place to be. It’s a week‑long burst of film, discussion, and community that draws locals and visitors alike. Below you’ll get the basics you need to plan your visit, plus a few insider tricks to make the most of the experience.

When and Where

MQFF usually runs in late August, right after the Notting Hill Carnival vibes have faded. In 2025 the festival kicks off on Monday, August 18 and wraps up on Saturday, August 23. Screenings are spread across three main venues: the historic Capitol Theatre, the modern Arts Centre and the intimate Cinema Nova in Carlton. All three are centrally located, with easy tram and train connections.

Each venue offers a slightly different atmosphere. The Capitol is great for big‑budget premieres, while the Arts Centre hosts talks and panel sessions. If you prefer a cozier feel, Cinema Nova’s small screens let you get up close to indie gems. Check the official schedule for exact times – most films start between 10 am and 8 pm, so you can plan a full day of viewing without feeling rushed.

What to Watch

The line‑up mixes world‑premiere documentaries, narrative features, and short‑form experiments from both emerging and established queer filmmakers. Highlights this year include the debut of "Heartstrings," a romantic drama set in Melbourne’s inner west, and "Beyond the Binary," a powerful documentary about non‑binary athletes.

If you’re hunting for something specific, use the festival’s website filter to sort by genre, country, or LGBTQ+ sub‑community. Most of the buzz is around the opening night gala, which premieres the festival’s centerpiece film followed by a Q&A with the director. For a deeper dive, look for the “Spotlight Series” – a curated selection of films that explore themes like climate justice and queer youth.

Don’t miss the shorts program on Thursday evening. It’s a rapid‑fire showcase of up to 20 five‑minute pieces, and the audience gets to vote for a “People’s Choice” short. That’s where you’ll see the next wave of talent that could soon be big‑screen material.

Now, let’s talk tickets. You can buy a full‑festival pass for around AUD 120, which gives you unlimited access to all screenings, talks, and special events. If you’re only in town for a day, single‑ticket prices range from AUD 12 for a matinee to AUD 18 for an evening screening. Student discounts are available with a valid ID, and the festival offers a “Community Pass” at a reduced rate for local LGBTQ+ centres.

Buy tickets directly on the MQFF website or through the Eventbrite app for instant confirmation. For the most popular slots – especially the opening night gala and the documentary premieres – it’s wise to book at least a week in advance.

Getting around is simple. Trams 86 and 96 run past the Arts Centre, while the free City Loop train drops you at Platform on the corner of Flinders and Swanston. If you’re driving, all three venues have nearby street parking, but it fills up fast on festival nights, so public transport is the safer bet.

Food options are plentiful. The Capitol lobby serves coffee and pastries, the Arts Centre has a full‑service café, and Cinema Nova’s bar offers craft beer and vegan snacks. Grab a bite before the film, or plan a post‑screening dinner at one of the many LGBTQ‑friendly cafés along Lygon Street.

Safety and accessibility are top priorities for MQFF. All venues are wheelchair‑accessible, and sign‑language interpreters are available for selected screenings. If you need any additional support, the festival’s help desk is staffed from 9 am to 9 pm each day.

Finally, why should you attend? Besides the great movies, MQFF is a networking hub for queer creatives, activists, and fans. The after‑party mixers, industry panels, and volunteer opportunities let you meet people who share your passion. It’s also a chance to see how diverse stories are being told on the big screen – stories that rarely get mainstream exposure.

So mark your calendar, grab your tickets, and get ready for a week of unforgettable cinema. Whether you’re a film buff, a first‑timer, or just looking for a fun night out, Melbourne Queer Film Festival has something for everyone.