Applications are now open for the 2025 program.
Screen Queensland is returning to Cairns and expanding to Brisbane with its Film Intensive Script to Screen (FISS) program in 2025, designed to build the next generation of below-the-line screen practitioners.
The industry development program provides new and emerging crew with essential job-ready skills and industry credits in roles and departments including camera, costume, lighting, production and locations.
The inaugural 2024 FISS program undertaken in Far North Queensland achieved remarkable results, with 66 per cent of participants securing paid positions in the industry, including on reality series from Paramount+ and MTV Entertainment Studios, Aussie Shore which recently filmed in Cairns.
The 2025 program offers selected participants from both Brisbane and Cairns six months of intensive training, including mentorship from industry professionals to build hands-on filmmaking experience through a series of workshops, culminating in the production of three new short films.
Screen Queensland CEO, Jacqui Feeney said that as demand for Queensland’s internationally renowned crew base continues to grow, broadening the successful FISS program to both Brisbane and Cairns provides another significant boost for the local screen sector.
“We are seeing record levels of screen production across the state, requiring a diverse array of screen skills, with Screen Queensland projects generating an estimated 5,900 employment opportunities in the last financial year.
“We are proud to partner with Essential Screen Skills, Kolperi Outback Filmmaking and Screen Well in leading the charge to expand our highly skilled screen workforce through FISS.
“This multi-faceted initiative delivers real results for the local screen industry and kickstarts sustainable career pathways for emerging below-the-line crew right here in Queensland.”
Mark Melrose, Head of Studios and Physical Production said that FISS is an invaluable opportunity for aspiring screen practitioners, including school leavers, TAFE and university students, with its proven track record of providing essential foundational training.
“Funded by the Queensland Government’s Department of Employment, Small Business and Training, FISS fosters a diverse and inclusive screen sector and we strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, as well as people living with disability.”
Moneth Montemayor, Project Manager for Essential Screen Skills said that the program will provide school leavers, emerging filmmakers and people looking to change careers with the necessary bridge to the screen industry.
“We are excited to train a cohort of entry-level peers, including people with transferable skills from outside the sector, under the mentorship of experienced industry professionals.”
Screen Queensland’s Film Intensive Script to Screen program is funded through the Workforce Connect Fund, powered by the Queensland Government’s Good people. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-2032 and delivered in partnership with Essential Screen Skills, Kolperi Outback Filmmaking and Screen Well.
