New $20,000 DocPlay Indie Booster Launched for AIDC 2026

AIDC has teamed up with leading documentary streaming platform DocPlay to introduce DocPlay Indie Booster – a $20,000 pitch initiative created to support independently released feature documentaries. Designed to provide funding for up to two projects with cash support, the initiative aims to help the successful films reach the audiences that matter most by supporting targeted theatrical screening campaigns within specific communities.

Debuting as part of the AIDC 2026 Cut to the Chase pitch meetings marketplace, the selected project teams will pitch to DocPlay for the opportunity to secure AUD $10,000 per project. The funds will go towards promotion and advertising spend to support the limited theatrical release of the successful independent Australian or Australian-New Zealand feature documentary film.

DocPlay is particularly keen to work with producers whose films have a distinct connection to specific interest groups and local communities, and a considered pathway to reach audiences. 

Project teams can opt to apply for the pitch when submitting a project for Cut to the Chase, with a due date of Friday 23 January (late deadline, Friday 30 January).

“Watching a documentary in the cinema is a unique experience, and in a shifting theatrical landscape, it isn’t always easy for producers and filmmaking teams to bring this experience to audiences,” says DocPlay Documentary Executive, Rufus Richardson.

“With this new initiative, we want to help build, foster, and maintain the documentary-loving community, whilst also championing bold, independent filmmakers with vibrant local stories and providing additional pathways to audience to help maximise engagement.”

The addition of the DocPlay Indie Booster in AIDC’s suite of marketplace and industry development initiatives will see AIDC 2026 unlock over $300,000 in awards, prizes and project and professional development opportunities for documentary and factual content and practitioners.

“AIDC and DocPlay share an unwavering commitment to supporting documentary filmmakers by creating new opportunities that platform the craft of extraordinary nonfiction stories and storytellers,” says AIDC CEO / Creative Director, Natasha Gadd. 

“The Docplay Indie Booster takes this a step further by giving independent filmmakers a vital cash contribution for their theatrical rollout. In times of increasing individual viewing habits, this is a great opportunity to drive collective viewing experiences in the cinema that can’t be matched on smaller screens.”  

Other contributors to AIDC’s 2026 initiative funding include pitch partners Shark Island Foundation and The Post Lounge Group, Awards partnerships with Film Finances and AFTRS, international FACTory pitch prize partners, Leading Lights industry donors, and AIDC prize monies for the Southern Light Award and the Indigenous Creators Pitch. 

AIDC’s marketplace and industry development programs are aimed at actively generating new work, fostering new talent, and establishing new pathways for industry growth. Participating in AIDC 2026 gives those working in documentary and factual an array of concrete opportunities to move projects forward, skill up, and expand their professional connections.

For more details including eligibility criteria and how to apply through the Cut to the Chase program, visit the DocPlay Indie Booster page. Applications close 11:59pm (AEDT) Friday 23 January 2026, (or late deadline Friday 30 January 2026).

AIDC returns to ACMI, Melbourne / Naarm from Monday 2–Thursday 5 March 2026, followed by an online international marketplace on 11–12 March 2026. The 2026 theme is HOLD TRUE, with further program details to be announced in the coming weeks.

Main Image: Still from Road to Patagonia (2024) Never Never Studios | Photo by Matty Hannon