The Emerging Writers’ Incubator returns, calling out for a new wave of Australian storytellers

Applications are now open for the SBS Emerging Writers’ Incubator, a nationwide initiative supporting the development of historically under-represented screenwriting talent in the Australian screen sector. In its third year in 2023, the initiative will be delivered in partnership with Screen Australia, and state agencies Screen NSW, Screen Queensland, Screen Tasmania, Screenwest, the South Australian Film Corporation (SAFC) and VicScreen, and with the assistance of the Australian Writers’ Guild.

Launched in 2021, the initiative was created to invest in the future of an increasingly inclusive screen sector and Australian storytelling, by providing a year of paid employment in a leading Australian production company for emerging writing talent reflecting backgrounds and experiences historically under-represented in the Australian industry. This includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; people who are culturally and linguistically diverse; people who are Deaf, hard of hearing or with disability; people who are female or gender diverse; people who identify as LGBTQIA+; and people located in regional and remote areas.

This year, once again, six successful writers will join the teams of Australian production companies acclaimed for their delivery of Australian drama. Over a 12-month period, employed full-time, they will gain significant work experience further developing their skills, knowledge, and networks, working across the production companies’ slate of drama productions. They will also be supported by the Australian Writers’ Guild with access to creative and training workshops.

In 2023, production company Curio Pictures will welcome a Western Australian writer into their NSW offices.

Launching in February 2022, Curio Pictures is an Australian TV and film production company under the leadership of Managing Director Jo Porter (Wentworth, Picnic at Hanging Rock, Packed To The Rafters, Always Greener) and Creative Director Rachel Gardner (The Stranger, Firebite, The End, Slow West), both award-winning Producers and Executive Producers of critically and popularly successful film and television.

Curio champions unique and distinct voices that have something to say and demand to be seen and heard, and has an exciting slate of projects in the pipeline.

The six successful writers from the initiative in 2022 – who were among hundreds of applications received from across Australia – are currently working in their placements around the country. Last year’s WA recipient, Kelli Cross, is currently working at Easy Tiger, with 2021 recipient, Cassandra Nguyen, completing her placement at Komixx Entertainment.

“At SBS, we’re committed to bringing though a tidal wave of new and diverse voices to tell stories for our screen. Giving skills and opportunity to talent that reflects the wonderful richness of who we are as a country makes for fresh, dynamic, surprising and entertaining stories that more Australians can connect with. The Emerging Writers’ Incubator is an exciting example of how we can come together as a sector and invest in genuine pathways and support careers. It is fabulous to see previous participants’ credits on shows, and with so much untapped talent out there I can’t wait to see what this year’s Incubator uncovers.” said Julie Eckersley, Head of SBS Scripted.

“Screen Australia is excited to support the third year of the SBS Emerging Writers’ Incubator and uncover a new generation of screenwriting talent. With a year-long placement with top production companies up for grabs, this initiative is an exceptional launch pad for diverse and emerging voices across the country. I encourage emerging screenwriters with a unique story, voice and perspective to apply.” said Bobby Romia, Screen Australia Head of Development.

“We’re proud to be supporting the third year of the Emerging Writers’ Incubator. This fantastic initiative will again give emerging WA screenwriters from under-represented backgrounds the opportunity to hone their skills and talent through a year-long placement, which in 2023 will be with the passionate team at Curio Pictures.” said Rikki Lea Bestall, Screenwest CEO.

How to Apply

The application deadline is Friday, 16 June 2023 at 5:00pm AWST.

Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application by late August 2022, with placements in host companies due to commence later this year.

Western Australian applications will be accepted through the Screenwest SmartyGrants portal.

The full guidelines, application materials and eligibility criteria are available on the Special Initiatives page of the Screenwest website.

Program Contact

For more information about this program, please contact:

Alison Hayles, Diversity Program Manager
Screenwest (Wednesdays and Thursdays only)
T: + 61 8 6169 2106
E:  alison.hayles@screenwest.com.au

Shane McNeil, Development Manager
Screenwest
T: +61 8 6169 2109
E: shane.mcneil@screenwest.com.au

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