The aim of Screen Australia’s Documentary Development program is to assist documentary makers in achieving planned outcomes for the development of their projects.

The program primarily supports one-off and series documentaries, including online and VR.

This could include:

• Further research
• Writing the next draft of a script or treatment
• Strategic shooting and/or editing to attract marketplace finance for the next stage of development or production; or compiling a sizzle reel.

Applicants may apply for any amount up to $30,000. 

Eligibility

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

It is a Screen Australia requirement that all applications for direct funding must attach a director and writer who are Australian citizens or residents.

In addition:

For one-off or series documentaries intended for significant audience reach such as a recognised Commissioning Platform or commercial theatrical release:

Individuals or teams must have a key creative with at least two ‘eligible credits’ in the role of producer and/or director. An ‘eligible credit’ under this strand must be a documentary project that is 30 minutes or longer in duration, and has:

• been broadcast by a recognised broadcaster or Commissioning Platform, or
• had a commercial theatrical release, or
• been invited to screen at IDFA, Hot Docs or equivalent.

Please note: If you meet the above criteria you are also eligible to apply to the online and VR strand.

For online or VR documentaries intended for public access on a screen based device:

Individuals or teams must have a key creative with at least one ‘eligible credit’ on a comparable project in the role of producer and/or director. An ‘eligible credit’ under this strand is an online or VR documentary project that has been publically released:

• on a commercially recognised platform, or
• been viewed by a significant audience, or
• been invited to screen at IDFA, Hot Docs or equivalent.

Less experienced practitioners may be part of the team, as long as at least one key principal is eligible as above. The intention is not to exclude new talent, but encourage them to team up with more experienced practitioners.

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