Screen Australia’s Feature Film Production program aims to support a diverse slate of Australian films for theatrical release that entertain and enlighten domestic and international audiences while reflecting the unique characteristics of Australian identity.

Please check the posted deadline dates and note that if your completed application is not submitted by the relevant deadline, they cannot guarantee turnaround of your project in time for the next Board meeting.

The program is not open to films with budgets of A$20 million or more.

Marketplace attachments are required, but they are not the only elements taken into consideration when Screen Australia makes funding decisions.

Documentary projects, including theatrical or feature-length documentaries, are not eligible under this program. Refer to the Screen Australia webpage regarding Documentary programs.

To be considered for Screen Australia production funding, a project must demonstrate that all other finance is in place at time of application. However, producers may apply anytime for a Screen Australia Letter of Interest at an earlier stage.

Contact an Investment Manager: Before applying for feature production it is essential that you contact a Screen Australia Investment Manager to discuss your project. Email Drama Production if you are unsure who to speak with.

We also encourage you to contact the Program Operations team before you submit your application to discuss any eligibility questions and ensure all the required supporting material is in place. This will mean we can process your application as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Call them on 1800 507 901 or email Drama Production.

What funding is available

Screen Australia will only contribute up to 65 per cent of the total budget, inclusive of any Producer Offset amount. Please note: in certain exceptional circumstances total funding can go as high as 75 per cent at the CEO’s or the Board’s discretion in accordance with their delegation.

Further, Screen Australia investment is capped at $2 million to a single theatrical feature film through this program unless there are exceptional circumstances.

For official co-productions: the 65 per cent cap applies only to the Australian components of the budget. You will need to provide the confirmation email as proof that the application has been lodged, a copy of the completed application for the provisional co-production approval AND the Producer Offset Provisional Certificate.

Low-budget feature films: For feature films which are intended to be produced with a total production budget under $1.5 million, Screen Australia may exercise flexibility in the application of these guidelines, particularly in relation to innovative marketplace components, and Pathway to Audience Strategies. Please check with an Investment Manager before applying. 

Enhancement Fund stream: 

For projects that are at rough cut stage (or later)

• Applications for Feature Enhancement must demonstrate exceptional distribution, festival and/or audience opportunities. This program aims to support the team, maximise the opportunity and elevate the film as it moves from post production into release. 
• Feature Enhancement is only open to projects that are the director’s first or second feature film and is not designed for projects that were underbudgeted or went over budget. 
• Funding is only to cover future costs, not costs already incurred, and applications will be ineligible if cast and crew have not been paid award minimums. Eligible costs may include: additional post production, technical delivery, and creation of high-quality marketing assets.
• Feature Enhancement funding is capped at $250,000. 
• Feature Enhancement applications must meet the same eligibility requirements as the Feature Film Production fund.

Who can apply?

• This program is open to Australian companies only.
• Applicant companies must also meet the general eligibility requirements set out in Screen Australia’s Terms of Trade, including the requirement to either hold the rights or have an appropriate option to acquire the rights necessary to produce, complete, deliver and exploit the project.

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