indigenous programs
Drama

The drama programs fund the project-specific costs associated with individual features, short films and TV drama series – including animation projects – by emerging and experienced Indigenous practitioners. The Indigenous Department is seeking to invest in the development and production of outstanding drama projects which are based on strong and original ideas, are well written, and can demonstrate the potential to reach an audience.

Development funding invests in production primarily to assist in the professional development of Indigenous directors who have showcased their skills in previous work, and then for the producers and teams with whom they work. Emerging Indigenous producers are encouraged to apply.

Production and post-production funding is typically provided in collaboration with broadcasters or other funding entities through joint initiatives. Post-production investment is available to fund project-specific post-production costs associated with taking individual projects from the end of principal photography through to delivery.

Special initiatives

Flash Black called on emerging Indigenous filmmakers from across Australia to submit 10-minute dramatic story ideas. The successful Flash Black story ideas are currently in development. When completed the series will comprise six 10-minute dramas designed to bring to the screen Indigenous stories, authored and crafted by Indigenous people.

Redfern Now is the first contemporary TV drama series written, directed and produced by Indigenous Australians. Developed in collaboration with Jimmy McGovern and produced by Blackfella Films the 6 X 1 hour series will centre around and explore contemporary inner city Indigenous life. The series is currently in development.

The Long Black Feature Program aims to bring to the screen feature-length stories that are authored and crafted by Indigenous people. Three writers’ labs and one directors’ lab have been held since its inception in 2004. As of September 2009, there were nine features in development. Check the website for the latest updates.

Past programs and projects

The Indigenous Branch was launched by the AFC in 1993 to promote the quality and diversity of Indigenous films and develop a wider audience for films written, directed and produced by Indgenous Australians. Over the years the Unit has carefully developed groups of Indigenous filmmakers through a sequence of drama series co-funded with state agencies and broadcasters and the National Indigenous Documentary Fund (NIDF).

Transferring to Screen Australia and becoming the Indigenous Department in 2008 we continue to support the voices, visions and stories of Indigenous filmmakers.

Browse through past Indigenous Department drama programs.