Reminder to industry on changes to documentary funding

Screen Australia’s Signature Documentary program supports documentary storytelling with a strong creative vision and the potential for acclaim.

It is a highly competitive program, with most filmmakers contributing a significant amount of time and resources in crafting their applications. 

To make it easier and more efficient for filmmakers to apply to Signature, Screen Australia has created a two-stage application process with a more concise application to the first stage. Filmmakers will also hear much faster if they make it onto the shortlist.

Signature program stories can be local or international with Australian authorship, produced for the big screen or innovative distribution. The program is unique in that it does not require market attachment. However, in all cases applicants will need to demonstrate a highly developed understanding of how to reach and engage their target market and audience.

Interactive documentaries are now being supported through the Multiplatform Documentary Production program instead of the Signature Documentary program. The Multiplatform Documentary Production program will continue to support interactive documentary storytelling that is bold in form and/or content, with a strong creative vision that pushes the boundaries on non-traditional platforms.  

Guidelines for the program are available on the Screen Australia website.

If you have any questions please phone 1800 507 901 or email Documentary.

The next closing date for Signature is 31 January 2014. The closing date for the Multiplatform Documentary Production program is 17 March 2014.