OUR MISSION:

The MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL SCREENPLAY AWARDS (MISA) is dedicated to discovering and championing exceptional independent screenwriting talent from around the world. We celebrate bold storytelling, compelling characters, and unique voices that push the boundaries of cinema and television.

Each month, we provide writers with the opportunity to have their work recognised and celebrated across a wide range of categories and genres. Whether you’re an emerging or an established screenwriter, MISA is committed to supporting your creative journey and helping you take the next step in your career.

Our panelists have been honoured with some of the most prestigious screenwriting accolades, including: the Monte Miller Award (recognising outstanding emerging screenwriters), Cannes International Screenplay Awards and AACTA Nominations (Australia’s highest screen industry honours). With deep industry insights and a commitment to fostering new talent, our judges will identify scripts and concepts with the potential to captivate global audiences.

ABOUT THE COMPETITION:

• Monthly Competitions: We offer a rolling submission process, ensuring that screenwriters receive timely recognition and opportunities.
• Diverse Categories: From feature films to short scripts, pilots, and web series, we celebrate all formats and genres.
• Global Reach, Local Heart: Based in Melbourne Australia, MISA welcomes international submissions, fostering a worldwide community of passionate storytellers.

Join us in celebrating the art of screenwriting—submit your script today!

Awards & Prizes

Best Feature Screenplay
Best Short Screenplay
Best Drama Screenplay
Best Horror Screenplay
Best Sci-Fi Screenplay
Best Thriller Screenplay
Best Comedy Screenplay
Best Mystery Screenplay
Best Crime Screenplay
Best Action Screenplay
Best Rom-Com Screenplay
Best Web Series Screenplay
Best TV Pilot Screenplay
Best First-time Feature Screenwriter

Rules & Terms

• Entries must be in English
• Submissions via PDF file only
• Revised versions of submitted scripts will not be accepted within the same competition cycle
• Scripts that have been produced, optioned, or have any existing rights agreements (e.g., attached talent, development deals) are ineligible
• All submitted materials must be the original work of the author(s)
• Adaptations of prior works must give source material credit
• Decisions of judges are final as per industry criteria
• Pages should be numbered
• Full-Length Feature Scripts: 160 pages or under
• Short Film Scripts: 30 pages or under
• TV Pilots: 130 pages or under
• Feedback is subjective and based on industry standards. MISA makes no guarantees regarding the impact or accuracy of feedback provided
• No warranties are expressed or implied as to the utility, value, or accuracy of statements written or spoken by our reader-analysts with regard to material submitted to us by writers, customers, or contest entrants
• Comments provided by judges, readers, administrators, or other writers are based upon personal opinion only and do not reflect the opinions of management; management assumes no responsibility the academic, creative, professional, economic, or emotional impact or consequences of the opinions we provide
• By submitting, writers agree that MISA and its affiliates are not liable for any claims related to the evaluation or handling of submitted material
• Material submitted to the competition is solely at the risk of the individual registering, entering, or offering written material for scoring, analysis, judgment, or commentary
• Once submitted material has been read, reviewed, analysed, critiqued, scored, or commented upon by assessors, producers, employees, representatives, or management of MISA, no refund of entry fee will be made
• All submitted material remains the property of the writer(s). MISA will not claim any rights to submitted scripts