How to Register

Film societies are not for profit organisations with annual memberships, run by elected volunteers and using defined aims and rules or a constitution.

Film societies are generally
non-theatrical users of film or DVD – which
means they do not charge for individual
screenings. The films shown may come from commercial distributors, non-commercial, government libraries or private collections.
They may be 35mm, 16mm or DVD. A small society may choose to meet in a private home.

NPV Cinemas are Not-for-Profit Volunteer-run organisations for screening films to the public. Admission is generally by individual payment so non-theatrical film hiring rates do not apply and screening rights may be more expensive.

NPV Film Festivals are similar to NPV Cinemas but screen over a shorter period.

To be accepted by film or DVD libraries you will need to meet certain criteria that we can give you. You will be a separate, independent group operating under aims and rules approved by the Federation of Victorian Film Societies. 

You may have already begun. If so, go straight to our membership application form below.

The correct membership charge for your organisation is shown in the relevant application form - to download, just click on the version you require.

For more detailed instructions and for more complex applications just download  Notes for Applicants (PDF).  

To start a film group, consider the following, and then go to Contact Us where more help is available.

KEY STEPS TO GETTING STARTED:

• Get together with others who will help.
• Decide on what type of film organisation you want to be - a film society, NPV cinema or NPV film festival.
• Determine a draft budget and membership or entrance fee.
• Draft some aims and rules of the proposed organisation.
• Decide on the type of program you will present.
• Locate a suitable a venue.
• Find the equipment.
• Promote a free screening to come and try it.
  

For further assistance please contact us at: admin@fvfs.org.au