by FilmInk Staff
For Film’s Sake (FFS) and Sydney Film Festival (SFF) has announced the return of Platform, its innovative incubator redefining how screen stories are developed – prioritising process, collaboration and momentum over traditional project pathways. The lab will run from June 8–13 as part of the 73rd Sydney Film Festival, with applications now open.
Now in its fourth year, Platform has become a launchpad for bold creative partnerships and career-defining opportunities, connecting emerging and established writers, producers and directors in an intensive, cross-disciplinary environment. At its core, the program challenges conventional development models by supporting creatives to build sustainable practices, not just individual projects.
In 2026 the lab will be led by Platform co-creator and BAFTA award-winning producer Samm Haillay, alongside Mmabatho Kau, founding mentor of the Realness Institute, South Africa’s flagship narrative development lab. Their collaboration began on For Film’s Sake’s Attagirl lab, delivered online at the time, and now continues in person in Sydney. Reflecting on her connection to Australian creatives, Mmabatho Kau said:
“Having spent over a decade working in script and story development across some of the world’s leading labs, I’ve developed a strong affinity for the Antipodean approach to filmmaking. My experience on Attagirl first sparked that connection, so I’m especially excited to finally head Down Under, collaborate again with Samm and support producers and creators to sharpen and interrogate their creative practice. Over the course of my career, I’ve come to understand that lasting film careers aren’t built on individual projects alone, but on a sustained curiosity about process. What endures is not just what you make, but how you make it – how you work with yourself, and how you work with others. Building that understanding is fundamental, and it begins with a deep engagement in the creative process itself.”
Platform’s approach is grounded in Haillay’s experience working in development as a disabled and neurodiverse producer. He recently presented The Crip Count at IFFR, a data-driven report examining the underrepresentation of disabled above-the-line creatives in A-list festival selections, underscoring the need for structural change in how talent is supported and developed. Platform was highlighted as part of this industry-facing seminar, with a follow-up event scheduled at the Marché du Film in Cannes through the European Producers Network. For Haillay, this work directly informs the thinking behind Platform:
“After presenting my first report on underrepresentation of disabled filmmakers in top-tier festivals at Rotterdam this year, I emphasised the need to rethink talent and content pathways. That shift begins with programs like Platform, which create development spaces that are more accessible, flexible and fairer for everyone. Over the past four years, it has been a privilege to witness Platform alumni develop trust in their instincts and flexibility in their creative and commercial approach. With such demonstrable growth, it is not surprising Platform grads have secured international placements, grants, investment and full-time work. We are grateful for the ongoing support of Screen NSW, whose investment in this innovative, evidence-based program reflects a simple truth: when diversity and inclusion are meaningfully embedded in systems, they do not just expand access, they strengthen outcomes for everyone.”
2026 marks the fourth consecutive year of Platform at SFF, an initiative now firmly established as a talent elevator for emerging and established writers, producers and directors looking to break new ground and build meaningful collaborations. In 2025, the program received a record 274 applications from across Australia, with 14 creatives participating in the week-long scheme. This year, up to twelve participants will be selected to take part in the lab, culminating in a public pitch at the SFF Hub on June 13. Reflecting on the program’s continued impact and growth, Kylie Munnich, Executive Director of Screen NSW, said:
“Platform has a proven track record of supporting and escalating NSW talent and Screen NSW is pleased to once again be supporting For Film’s Sake and Platform Lab as major partner. Alumni of this innovative program have secured development, production and company investment, with many gaining full-time employment or valuable attachments. I look forward to seeing this year’s participants expand their creative skillset and walk away with a better understanding of global markets.”
Echoing this, Sophie Mathisen, Executive Director of For Film’s Sake and Platform co-creator, added:
“We’re thrilled to once again partner with SFF, and deeply grateful to Screen NSW for their continued support in delivering this game-changing program for a fourth year. As our alumni network approaches 100, Platform is no longer just about the experience of the program itself, but about the networks that are built and sustained long after the week in Sydney ends. In response to growing demand, we have moved to a rolling application process for 2026. We will begin interviewing candidates as applications are received and may close the portal once all twelve places are filled. We strongly encourage applicants to apply early, as we expect to close well ahead of the final deadline of 29 May.”
Applications are open on a rolling basis with a final deadline of midnight, May 29. If places are exhausted prior, applications will be closed. Shortlisted applicants may be asked for a short interview with Platform facilitators before confirmation of their selection. Participants will be publicly announced on June 2. Accommodation, meals, accreditation and access to select Sydney Film Festival events are provided. A limited travel bursary is also available for participants experiencing financial hardship.
To apply, participants must complete a short questionnaire and submit a two-minute video pitch explaining their collaborative approach and reason for applying. Applications can be submitted here. Please check the FFS website for more details.
Platform is created by For Film’s Sake with support from major partner Screen NSW.
Main Image: Platform Pitch Event 2025
ABOUT FOR FILM’S SAKE
For Film’s Sake (FFS) is Australia’s flagship screen skills charity, delivering innovative and impactful programs across content development, packaging and distribution. Founded in 2018, FFS collaborates with leading international partners to support both emerging and established screen creatives. Its initiatives focus on expanding access, fostering collaboration and supporting diverse talent, with programs that have backed international teams and enabled a number of creatives to secure funding for development and production through global partnerships.
ABOUT SYDNEY FILM FESTIVAL
Sydney Film Festival will celebrate its 73rd birthday from Wednesday 3 June to Sunday 14 June 2026, offering Sydneysiders another exciting season of cinema amidst a whirlwind of premieres, red-carpet openings, in-depth discussions, film guests and more.
Sydney Film Festival is a major event on the New South Wales cultural calendar and is one of the world’s longest-running film festivals. For more information, visit sff.org.au.
The 73rd Sydney Film Festival is supported by the NSW Government through Screen NSW, the Federal Government through Screen Australia and the City of Sydney. Stay up to date with Sydney Film Festival: eNews, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
