Screen Australia Story Development: Premium Plus Fund

Screen Australia, the Federal Government agency responsible for supporting Australian screen development, production and promotion, has more than doubled available funding through its adjunct to the Story Development: Premium Fund. To ensure that the industry can rapidly bounce back from this crisis, Screen Australia is focusing on projects that are in advanced development , getting them ready to shoot as soon as the crisis abates. They are also focusing on projects that will have the greatest impact for the broader sector. In 2018-2019, total financing through the fund – focused on scripted projects with demonstrable market interest from experienced creatives – was AUD$1.4 million ($US891,176) Now, for 2019-2020, the budget allocation has been increased to AUD$3.4 million ($US2.1 million). The extra allocation will target high-budget productions, with firm market interest that are nearly production-ready. It is predominantly aimed at episodic scripted dramas, though film and online productions will also be considered. These projects can also request development funds for HODs and key crew beyond producer/writer fees.

(See Screen Australia funding programs)