Big Bucks for Short Scripted

Big Bucks for Short Scripted

ABC and Screen Australia announce $1.5 million digital initiative for scripted content.

ABC and Screen Australia have joined forces to create Long Story Short, a national, digital-first scripted series initiative to develop and produce five major projects to premiere on ABC iview. Creative teams with great ideas for scripted projects including contemporary drama, narrative comedy or sci-fi which appeal to younger Australians aged 18-35, are encouraged to apply.

A minimum of five projects will be chosen to receive funding of up to $300,000 each, plus industry support to write and produce a compelling scripted series to premiere on ABC iview.

ABC iview is Australia's most popular Video on Demand service, accounting for over 50% of total minutes viewed across the TV Video Players (Seven, Nine, Ten, SBS & Foxtel Go). It has become a destination of choice for younger Australians with its diverse offering of digital first content. Titles launching exclusively on iview in 2016 include series 2 of The Katering Show, -alternative media' parody DAFUQ?, Indigenous factual series Black As, and the curious entertainment series You Can't Ask That.

ABC Managing Director, Mark Scott said: 'As the national broadcaster we are committed to delivering content for all Australians and in particular scripted content is vital for telling our distinct and diverse Australian stories. Long Story Short is an exciting initiative which will see unique Australian content developed in partnership with Screen Australia, targeting younger, digital first audiences, and given a platform on Australia's favourite video on demand service."

 

Screen Australia CEO Graeme Mason said: 'Screen Australia is proud to partner with the ABC on Long Story Short. We have seen incredible talent come through our digital and multiplatform initiatives, and Long Story Short will provide new tools and invaluable industry development for creative teams who are creating content for younger audiences. We are looking forward to seeing what the teams come up with."

 

For more information and to apply, visit Screen Australia Download the application form here.