Applications open for Talent LA 2018

6 June, 2018

Wednesday 6 June 2018

Screen Australia and the Australian Writers’ Guild are supporting up to ten Australian directors and/or screenwriters to take part in Talent LA this September 2018. Returning for a second year, Talent LA is a bespoke week-long program of targeted and curated meetings, workshops and networking opportunities.

The delegation will be led by Nerida Moore, Senior Development Executive and Harry Avramidis, Manager International, from Screen Australia and Susie Hamilton, Professional Development Manager at the Australian Writers’ Guild.

We are looking for directors/screenwriters who can demonstrate recent international audience traction from an online series, TV series, short films and/or low-budget feature/s officially selected or awarded at A-list festivals.

Screenwriters who have been a recipient of a significant international screenwriting award, such as Black List, PAGE or Academy Nicholl fellowship, or who are part of the Australian Writers’ Guild Pathways Program are also encouraged to apply.

Creatives with slates suited to the US market and with one or more market-ready long-form TV series at an advanced stage of development will be prioritised. Screen content-makers representative of the diversity of Australia are strongly encouraged to submit applications.“Talent LA was an incredible experience, both creatively and professionally,” said Sarah Bishop, writer, director, and producer best known as one third of comedy trio Skit Box who attended Talent LA in 2017.

“I heard from some amazing storytelling minds including A-List writers and directors, and had access to some of the top studio and network executives, with whom I am continuing to talk to about Australian and international projects. It was an absolute game changer in terms of my professional development and I made some great connections with my fellow alumni in the process,” continued Bishop.

In addition to being able to take part in the Talent LA program, successful applicants are eligible for a grant of up to $3,000 to go toward their travel costs. In addition to the grant, seven nights of accommodation in West Hollywood will be provided to all Talent LA participants.

Applicants must be available to be in LA from 16–21September 2018 inclusive. A complete schedule of the program will be provided to the successful applicants in due course. Successful applicants will be encouraged to consider staying longer in LA to capitalise on introductions and opportunities. 

The deadline for applications is 5pm AEST on Friday 22 June. For more information, including how to apply go to the guidelines HERE.

Successful applicants will be notified before 16 July 2018.