Media Release

Screen Producers Australia (SPA) has today opened applications for Pitch On Demand 2026, its exclusive online pitching initiative giving SPA members access to leading commissioners and production partners seeking their next project or creative partnership. 

Now in its sixth year, Pitch On Demand 2026 will bring together Foxtel Group, Fremantle Australia and Moonbug Entertainment, with opportunities spanning scripted, unscripted and children's content.

Fremantle Australia joins Pitch On Demand for the first time this year, with Head of Development Ellie Madritsch and Creative Producer Anna Curtis looking to connect with scripted producers and creators seeking a major production partner for their project. 

"We’re thrilled to be part of Pitch on Demand this year. It’s such a unique opportunity to connect with new voices and emerging talent, and we value seeing the program evolve with the added focus on helping projects get truly market-ready," Ms. Madritsch said.

"Backing that extra layer of support for early-career producers and creators is exactly the kind of initiative our industry needs more of."

For producers working in unscripted content, Foxtel Group Head of Unscripted Originals Howard Myers-Rifai returns to Pitch on Demand, seeking fresh and original projects for Foxtel and Binge. 

"Pitch on Demand is a valuable pathway for discovering fresh Australian stories and talent, delivering a remarkable mix of creativity and originality from a diverse range of local producers," Mr Myers-Rifai said.

"The program has initiated valuable relationships for us that continue to develop. Seeing that momentum build is incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited by the opportunity to seeing what new ideas come through."

This year, SPA members can also connect directly with Richard Hickey, Chief Creative Officer at Moonbug Entertainment, one of the world's leading children's entertainment companies and the studio behind global brands such as CoComelon, Blippi, Little Angel and Little Baby Bum. 

SPA CEO Matthew Deaner said the breadth of this year’s participating partners provides valuable opportunities for Australian producers and creators to advance projects and develop new industry relationships. 

"We welcome Foxtel Group's return to Pitch On Demand and are delighted to have Fremantle Australia and Moonbug Entertainment join the initiative for the first time," Mr Deaner said. 

"The participation of new and returning partners reflects an appetite for Australian screen stories and the producers and creators behind them."

"Pitch On Demand continues to foster meaningful connections between SPA members and major industry partners, creating pathwasy for Australian stories to reach audiences both here and internationally."

To assist with applications, SPA has recorded online briefings with each partner outlining the types of projects or partnerships they are seeking. These briefings are available on the SPA website and YouTube channel, with SPA members encouraged to review the relevant briefing before submitting their project.

Applications for Pitch On Demand close at 11:59pm AEDT on Sunday 18 October 2026. Following an assessment process, shortlisted applicants will be invited to a one-on-one pitch meeting with the relevant partner.

More information about Pitch On Demand program and applications HERE.