by FIlmInk Staff
The South Australian Film Corporation (SAFC) has launched the third iteration of its successful First Nations Short Film Program, which boosts the careers of First Nations South Australian filmmakers through script development, mentoring and the opportunity to gain above-the-line short film credits.
Applications are now open for Phase 1 of the program, the Script Development Initiative, which in an exciting first will be delivered in partnership with The Mercury. This partnership builds on the successes of The Mercury’s established script and industry development initiatives for emerging filmmakers, backed by the SAFC.
Up to five SA First Nations creatives will be selected to develop a 7-to-10-minute short film script from early concept to polished final draft, with support through industry mentoring, feedback sessions and an intensive scriptwriting workshop. A networking event will help writers to connect with short film directors and short film producers.
The developed projects will then be eligible for production funding through Phase 2 of the initiative, set to open later this year. Writer/director/producer teams will apply, with up to two teams selected for up to $45,000 per project in-production funding, along with further workshops, mentoring and networking opportunities.
Launched in 2022, the first two rounds of the SAFC’s First Nations Short Film Program have supported the development and production of six short films, boosting the careers of seven South Australian First Nations creatives: director Edoardo Crismani and writer/producer Tammy Zweck- Coleman for Black Time, White Time; writer/director Adam Jenkins for The Getaway; writer/director Travis Akbar for Tambo; writer/director Lilla Berry for The Secret; writer/director Josh Barbo for Digital Abyss; and writer/director Dylan Coleman for Catchin’ Mumoo.
SAFC Head of First Nations Kirstie Parker said: “We are excited to launch a new round of the SAFC’s First Nations Short Film Program and to be partnering with The Mercury for this script development phase, given their expertise in supporting emerging filmmakers. Short films are a proven pathway to longer form projects, and the SAFC is proud to support targeted development opportunities which better position and champion First Nations people to take their stories to audience around the world via screen.”
The Mercury CEO Sarah Lancaster said: “The Mercury is thrilled to be partnering with the SAFC to support the next generation of First Nations storytellers. This story development program builds on the Mercury’s established script and industry initiatives supporting up-and-coming filmmakers and deepens our investment in South Australian storytelling. Dedicated time, mentoring and craft support at the early-career stage doesn’t just strengthen a script – it creates foundations to build lasting careers. Creating genuine pathways for local filmmakers is something we’re deeply passionate about, and we’re proud to help First Nations creatives take this next step.”
Applications for the Script Development Initiative are open until 20 August. To help potential applicants learn more about the program, the SAFC and The Mercury are hosting a virtual Q&A session on Thursday 30 July. For more information, go to www.safilm.com.au/funding-programs#fnsfp
