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Friday 3 July 2020
Screen Queensland (SQ) and the ABC have partnered to offer Queensland filmmakers the opportunity to pitch to create short documentary films for distribution on ABC platforms.
The ABC and SQ Factual Initiative 2019-20 will provide development and production support to early-mid career filmmakers or teams, to create 10 minute short films that can act as a proof of concept for pitching factual series into the market.
Up to eight teams will be shortlisted to refine their ideas in a workshop with ABC executives, with up to three to be selected to progress to production and distribution on ABC digital platforms.
SQ Executive Vice President, Content, Jo Dillon said the initiative was a significant opportunity for Queensland's vibrant factual sector to create proofs-of-concept that demonstrate to market the commission potential of a long-form factual series.
"The ABC has a rich history in producing high-quality factual programming that offers powerful reflections of Australia, delivered through shows ranging from hard-hitting investigations to entertaining character-led formats." said Ms Dillon.
"Screen Queensland is excited to work with the ABC's talented factual team to provide a platform for Queensland creatives to road test innovative documentary series ideas that can speak to a national audience," she said.
Submissions are required to be based on a brief from the ABC, calling for compelling, formattable ideas with strong broadcast potential, that examine the theme of Australian identity.
Julie Hanna, ABC's Manager, Factual said, "Exploring Australian identity is at the heart of the ABC.
"We're excited to have the opportunity to work with Queensland creatives, pushing the boundaries of factual content with this inspiring new initiative," she said.
ABC Factual & Documentary is responsible for thought-provoking and inspiring programs such as Old People's Home for 4 Year Old's, Employable Me, Anh's Brush With Fame, War on Waste, Restoration Australia, Magical Land of Oz, Aftermath: Beyond Black Saturday, Back In Time For Dinner, Exposed and Don't Stop the Music.
SQ encourages applications from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander practitioners as well as regionally-based Queenslanders and filmmakers from underrepresented backgrounds.
