New training program launched for Queensland emerging screen industry practitioners

Screen Queensland and the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) have launched the AFTRS Training Partnership, designed to provide strategic pathways for entry into the screen industry, upskilling and career progression for Queensland practitioners. 

Supported through Screen Queensland’s Initiatives program, AFTRS will deliver short courses for emerging practitioners and Industry Certificates over a 12-month period from this November in Brisbane and Cairns. 

Screen Queensland will subsidise more than 50% of the course costs for local participants, to enable accessible pathways for Queensland practitioners and address skills shortages in the state.  

Screen Queensland’s Chief Creative Officer, Jo Dillon said the program is an exceptional opportunity for emerging talent to upskill in their practice and increase exposure with industry professionals and peers. 

Dillon noted “this partnership with AFTRS provides a platform for emerging filmmakers, producers and writers to receive fundamental training and accelerate their first step into the industry. 

“Supporting local screen talent is at the heart of what we do at Screen Queensland, and we’re incredibly excited to see this program come to fruition over the next year.”

AFTR Chief Executive, Nell Greenwood added “we’re really proud of this partnership. It allows us to meet our remit of offering world-class, industry-partnered education across the country and support Screen Queensland in strengthening the capability of their local industry.”

The courses will be delivered across locations in Brisbane and Cairns, with the first course, ‘Intro to Producing’, taking place at Screen Queensland’s headquarters in Teneriffe from 26th-27th November 2021. Applications close on 19th November for this course.

Led by industry professionals, this course explores the different roles of producers and major stages in production. Participants will gain an insight into the role of the producer in building a creative team, development, research and marketing, finance and funding, and more, across a range of platforms. 

Additional courses in the program include ‘Budgeting Fundamentals’ and a 100% online ‘Script Assessment Workshop’. Further information about the Industry Certificates will be released closer to the dates.  

Registration for the ‘Intro to Producing’ course is now open via Screen Queensland’s website.