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SPA Producer Fellowship 2026/27

SPA Producer Fellowship 2026/27

The SPA Producer Fellowship is a professional development program for screen producers looking to grow their businesses, expand international partnerships and develop projects for the global marketplace. The six-month Fellowship has been created for accomplished producers who have already demonstrated success through recognised film and television credits and are ready to take the next step in building sustainable production businesses. Through mentoring, curated networking and exclusive industry access, the Fellowship will help participants strengthen international relationships, connect with potential collaborators and position Australian stories for global audiences.

We strongly encourage applications from First Nations practitioners and those whose voices and experiences are underrepresented in our industry. If you require any support with your application please contact us to discuss your involvement.

TIPS FOR YOUR APPLICATION

  • Include a link to your IMDB profile
  • Your CV should draw a picture of your pathway and experience in the industry to date
  • After you start an application, you will receive an email which contains a link to your application so that you may edit it any time before the closing date. 

Application Form Questions

"Bio"
Ensure you note your key career achievements. Make sure it tells a story about what's important to you and what makes you unique.
Explicitly outline exactly how you meet the eligibility criteria.

"What other production and business experience have you had?"
Consider what will illustrate your contribution within the wider sector and your business acumen

What are your short term (1-5 years) career goals and how will this program help you achieve them?
This program is about expanding your network, experience and relationships globally. WIth that context in mind, help us to understand how the program can elevate your career and your business specifically. What are the gaps in experience, knowledge, resources and relationships that you have - be specific not general. What do you propose would best bridge those gaps? Try to consider what is specific to you rather than the general issues or concerns that are commonly shared by all producers. 

Please list your Top 3 dream mentors referencing our SPA member list below.
If you don't think a mentor would be useful to you right now, that's fine  - please let us know in this question. If an international mentor would be a good fit for this stage of your career, we are happy to help faciliate this through this program where possible.

Please outline the project you are currently developing and will be seeking an international co-production partner for.
Only include project(s) that you are genuinely seeking international co-production partners for.
Include the logline, synopsis, any attachments and budget scale.
Audience: Ensure you outline the local AND international audience (specify which country you are seeking a co-pro partner for)
Duration:  if a series please note #episodes x commercial hours
Supporting materials: Attach your pitchdeck (no need for a topline budget) as a pdf. No other materials are required.

Program Inclusions

If you are selected for the SPA Producer Fellowship you will receive:

  • Participation in Global Connect, SCREEN FOREVER's exclusive curated networking event with Australian and international producers
  • 50% discount on a SPA-member Gold Coast 3-Day Badge for SCREEN FOREVER 41
  • Participation in an online European co-production incubator, hosted by SPA & EPC
  • 6-month mentorship where relevant
  • Complimentary access to the SPA Masterclass series
  • Introductions to key industry partners
  • Curated meetings with international guests @ SCREEN FOREVER 41
  • Amplification of your professional profile across the wider sector

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must have at least two (2) credits as a lead producer of projects which were exhibited:

  • on a broadcast or major streaming platform which has at least 100,000 subscribers; OR
  • official selection at Cannes, Toronto, Venice, Sundance, Berlin, SXSW, Series Mania festivals; OR
  • been distributed and theatrically released in multiple major international territories (excluding self-distribution); OR
  • been a recipient of a significant international award such as awards from Cannes, Toronto, Venice, Sundance, Berlin, SXSW festivals, or nominated for Academy, BAFTA, or Emmy awards.

For the avoidance of doubt, projects that in development, production or post do not meet these requirements.

In addition, applicants must also:

  • have at least one (1) drama, factual or unscripted project (for which you control of the rights necessary to carry out the project) currently in development which is seeking an international co-production partner;
  • be at least 18 years of age;
  • be an Australian citizen or a Permanent Australian Resident;
  • not have been previously selected for the SPA Producer Fellowship program (previous Ones to Watch applications are eligible to apply for the SPA Producer Fellowship);
  • pay the Application Fee;
  • hold a current SPA Membership as at 12th October 2026 which is valid until at least 6th May 2027;
  • be available to attend the next iteration of SCREEN FOREVER in-person.

Key Dates

  • Sunday 6th September @ 11:59pm AEST: Entries close 
  • Wednesday 30th September (TBC): EPC Co-Pro Incubator
  • Monday 12th October: Fellows announced 
  • Monday 3rd May 2027: Global Connect
  • Tues 4th - Thurs 6th May 2027: Screen Forever 

Assessment Criteria

Applications will be assessed by an external panel against the following criteria:

  • The depth and breadth of the applicant's experience;
  • The potential for the project(s) to connect with international partners and it's intended audience;
  • The effectiveness of the program to facilitate progression of the applicant’s career and project(s)

We strongly encourage applications from  First Nations producers and those whose voices and experiences are underrepresented in our industry. If you require any support in your application please contact us  well in advance of the closing date to discuss your application. 

Applicants may be contacted during the assessment to clarify or provide further details.

Due to the volume of applications, SPA is not able to provide individual feedback

Associated Costs

If you are selected for this program, you may incur some costs:  

  • If you are not already a SPA member, SPA Membership (associate or full member). Further details on Membership options are available here
     
  • Participants are responsible for the cost of their travel, accommodation, and 50% of SPA-member Gold Coast registration to SCREEN FOREVER. The state screen agencies have travel grants available. Please check the website for your local agency for details on closing dates, guidelines etc.
Price:
$119 (inc. GST)
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