Talent Escalator Programs

Overview	Targeted Initiatives - current	Internships, script workshops
Springboard	Short Animation	Short Film Completion

Targeted Initiatives:
Script Factory: Script Developers Initiative

Screen Australia recognises rigorous craft-based script development as an essential part of the feature filmmaking process. The foundation of good development is the ability to read and analyse a screenplay in order to ascertain its potential strengths as well as correctly identify the source of its weaknesses. As a stand-alone practice in Australia, the script development role demands specific, tailored support from a number of experienced and relevant sources.

With a view to strengthening and advancing Australian screenwriting culture and its practitioners, Screen Australia is working with development training pioneer the UK Script Factory to assist professionals involved in the development side of filmmaking to hone their skills in a practical environment.

This initiative is aimed at those whose core professional commitment is to a development role.

What is it?

The initiative is based on a workshop designed to enable participants to focus on the nuts and bolts of screenplay developing. Individuals apply to Screen Australia with demonstrated screenplay development experience, or achievements in a strongly related role.

Participants are introduced to a structured approach of assessing screenplays and preparing a development strategy. By examining produced and unproduced screenplays, participants consider what makes a good screen story and learn to recognise screenwriting talent. This workshop focuses on how to translate the analysis into constructive feedback for writers so that the script report becomes the first stage of script development.

The workshop includes time for participants to prepare written work, on which they will receive feedback from the tutors.

Workshop preparation

Prior to the workshop participants are asked to read a number of produced screenplays and watch two films. These serve as examples throughout the course that can be referred to in detail.

In addition, participants are asked to read an unproduced screenplay and prepare a brief synopsis and some rough notes.

Fees

Successful applicants are not charged for attending the workshop.

Travel and accommodation expenses are reimbursed for participants who live outside of Sydney, up to a maximum of $800, on provision of a valid tax invoice with appropriate receipts attached.

Eligibility

Please note, this program is aimed specifically at professionals working in a development role and others whose professional commitment is finding and working with screenwriters.
Applicants must have demonstrated experience as a writer, script editor, script development executive or creative producer on narrative feature film drama. References will be required to support this criterion.

Applicants must be available to undertake the workshop.

Applicants must also meet the general eligibility requirements set out in Screen Australia’s Terms of Trade.

Assessment process

Applications will be assessed by a combination of Screen Australia Development Managers and industry specialists as required. Screen Australia will advise applicants of the success or otherwise of their application.

Assessment criteria

Screen Australia will take the following considerations into account when assessing applications for this program:

• The skills, experience and track record of the applicant.
  
• The applicant’s potential to apply their skills in a practical environment.
  
• The quality of the submitted script report or development notes.
  
• Clear evidence of the applicant’s intention to work in a development role.

Application materials

Applications must be submitted using the relevant Screen Australia form, and include all supporting material listed in the checklist on that form.