Through the Online Production program Screen Australia invests in the production of scripted, children’s and documentary projects that take risks and push the envelope of storytelling in the online space.

This fund is aimed at lower-budget productions which may present talent development or project development opportunities. Online production values these benefits ahead of commercial gain, so it is expected that above-the-line fees and company overheads are budgeted modestly in accordance with those aims.

In most cases this fund applies to projects releasing on social media platforms such as YouTube, Facebook and TikTok, as well as Virtual Reality (and other Extended Reality) projects. Screen Australia recognises this part of the industry is fast-changing, so other release platforms may be eligible.

Funding

Applications may be for any amount up to $500,000 per project. This should include all elements of the project through to release. Any development amounts previously paid by Screen Australia are repayable and should be included in the amount requested.

Applications

The turnaround time for decision is approximately seven weeks from receipt of eligible application.

Open for applications anytime.

Who can apply?

Applications cannot be from individuals, and must be from a team that includes at least two key creatives covering the roles of Writer, Director and Producer. At least one of the key creatives must have a credit in an equivalent role on a comparable project that has been publicly released at the time of application.

The applicant company must meet the General Eligibility requirements set out in Screen Australia’s Terms of Trade; in particular, it must be incorporated and carrying on business in Australia, and have its central management and control in Australia. Applications for Online Production can be accepted from sole traders, however, if successful in securing Screen Australia funding, the applicant must incorporate a company to be able to contract with Screen Australia, and there should be a minimum of two key creative members in the team.  

Although marketplace attachments are not a requirement for Online Production funding, projects that include a television broadcast or commissioning platform component must have evidence of a current offer to license the content., The involvement of a relevant marketplace attachment may improve the competitiveness of the application.

Co-funding with state agencies, other government organisations, educational institutions, private investors or other partners is encouraged. Where crowd-funding is proposed as a source of funds, a contingency plan must be provided in case this does not eventuate. If the finance plan relies on significant third party finance, Screen Australia reserves the right to request evidence of its status, including basic terms, prior to assessment.

The following formats and projects are ineligible to apply through this fund:

• Short films (excluding single episode XR projects)
• Reality
• Light entertainment including panel and variety shows
• Primarily educational or internal training content
• Digital or online extensions to a film or TV program

• Phone: 1800 507 901
• Email: online@screenaustralia.gov.au