Screen NSW is creating new pathways into the screen industry for the next generation of behind-the-scenes crew, with the inaugural Crew Development Program supporting 85 recipients embarking on the next step in their screen careers.
The Crew Development Program, which was a commitment in the three-year NSW Screen & Digital Games Strategy, offers intensive training, which is delivered through National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA), Australian Film TV and Radio School (AFTRS) and TAFE NSW with paid production placements and mentorship across six departments for entry-level and mid-career crew from key priority areas.
The program was developed to address the national skilled-crew shortage, impacting many departments across screen production, and boost participation in the screen industry from key priority areas. Through industry consultation, Screen NSW identified six departments most in need of entry-level and mid-career positions. These included Production Accounts, Location Department, Production Management, Post-Production Supervision, Costume Department and Art Department.
Through the Crew Development Program, Screen NSW has supported 85 recipients across these six departments with intensive training in their chosen field, and 12 recipients will now go on to paid production placements and mentorship.
NIDA CEO Liz Hughes said: “NIDA is committed to providing practice-based learning that builds sustainable career pathways. NIDA’s training for Art Department and Costume roles in Screen NSW’s Crew Development Program will empower emerging creatives with the essential skills to create a bold, world-class screen industry.”
Screen NSW Executive Director Kylie Munnich said: “The Crew Development Program was born out of a very real and urgent need for skilled crew on screen projects nationally, and a lack of representation in these below-the-line roles.
“Through this program we have identified and supported 85 talented practitioners who will help shape the future of screen production in NSW, ensuring we remain the leading state for screen in Australia. I congratulate every recipient and look forward to seeing the valuable contributions they will make to the screen industry into the future.
“I’d like to thank program partners AFTRS, TAFE NSW and NIDA, as well as members from the screen industry who were part of the consultation process, for ensuring this program sets a strong foundation for our recipients as they embark on the next stage of their careers in the screen industry.”
Expressions of Interest (EOI) from production companies to host Screen NSW-supported paid placements as part of the Crew Development Programs are now open and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. For more information on the EOI, please visit the Screen NSW website here.
For more information about the Crew Development Program, please visit the Screen NSW website here.