Tuesday 10 September 2024 – Endemol Shine Australia (a Banijay Entertainment company) and Screen Australia have today announced the Early Career Writers Program, supported by the Australian Writers’ Guild.
A collaboration between Endemol Shine Australia and Screen Australia, the initiative will provide high-level training in a global calibre script department to four early to mid-career Australian writers who have the potential for a strong career trajectory in scripted episodic storytelling.
Based in the Endemol Shine Australia headquarters in Sydney, over eight weeks the successful applicants will be paired with experienced mentors who will not only guide them, but directly contribute to their learning and professional development. As part of the program, the emerging writers will be immersed in all facets of script development and rotate through all the roles that make up a successful and well-functioning script department.
Endemol Shine Australia Head of Scripted Sara Richardson said: “This initiative is very close to our hearts. Evident with the success of the first emerging writers program, we are strong believers in both nurturing and encouraging the next generation, as that is who the future of our industry will be founded on.”
Screen Australia Head of Development Bobby Romia said: We are excited to announce the Early Career Writers Program, a unique opportunity for Australian screenwriters to gain hands-on experience within a global production company. This initiative highlights our commitment to nurturing local talent by providing them with high-calibre training and exposure in an internationally renowned script department.”
“Collaborating with Endemol Shine Australia and the Australian Writers’ Guild, we are proud to support the next generation of storytellers as they develop their craft and pursue success from right here in Australia.”
A paid opportunity, commencing Monday 25 November 2024, applicants must be able to commit to the full eight week duration of the program (with two weeks off for the holiday period). If not already a resident of Greater Sydney, applicants must be available to relocate, with support available toward relocation for the duration of the program.
Applications are now open and will close at 5.00 pm AEST on Thursday 3 October 2024 and can be made via the Screen Australia Application Portal. For eligibility requirements and how to apply see Guidelines here
Eligible applications will be considered and reviewed by Endemol Shine Australia, Screen Australia and/or industry specialists with successful applicants notified by 5.00 pm AEDT on Monday 28 October 2024.
Submissions should include the following:
Fully completed application form including contact details and applicant eligibility; and,
CV/Biography (maximum 1 page) including writing credits applicable to the required eligibility to apply to this program; and,
A personal motivation statement (maximum 1 page) that includes:
Why you wish to apply to this program;
How the opportunity supports your career goals and trajectory;
Why you believe you are ready for this opportunity; and,
What you believe you will contribute by participating in this program.
A letter of recommendation and/or support (maximum 1 page) from a professional context you have worked in as a screenwriter.
One set of samples pages (maximum 10 pages) of your scripted writing (any genre, any platform, in line with the Applicant Eligibility) either produced or unproduced.
For more information or to apply visit www.screenaustralia.gov.au
The Early Career Writers Program is presented by Screen Australia in collaboration with Endemol Shine Australia with industry partner Australian Writers’ Guild.
About Endemol Shine Australia
Endemol Shine Australia (ESA), a Banijay Entertainment company, comprises proven leaders in television and digital production whose shows have become ratings hits. ESA’s slate represents the most exciting and popular programming on Australian free-to-air networks and pay TV channels. The company’s scripted credits include the 2024 TV Week Logie Award winning RFDS, NCIS: Sydney, Bali 2002, Offspring, Sisters, Peter Allen: Not The Boy Next Door and INXS: Never Tear Us Apart.
