AFTRS Open

This is an online, ten-week course that will introduce participants to the fundamentals of creating viable and original TV drama and comedy series concepts. Course tutor is Vicki Madden, a highly experienced TV writer whose credits include story producer and writer on The Bill as well Australian series Water Rats, Stingers, Halifax fp, Blood Brothers and McLeod’s Daughters. The course comprises ten modules with a wide variety of learning activities in a lively online chat forum and ... [More]

This course will introduce emerging writers and potential script editors to the experience of working in the fast-paced and challenging environment of series television. Writing and working in television differs substantially from film on many levels: deadlines are tight and networks are demanding! Over two days participants will be taken through the many facets and requirements of writing in a medium that requires team work, strict deadlines and an understanding of the many product... [More]

In this one-day Masterclass, Academy award nominee and 6 time AFI Award winning editor Jill Bilcock will share insights into the craft and role of editing for feature films. Jill Bilcock’s body of work includes an Oscar nomination and AFI award for Moulin Rouge and AFI awards for Red Dog, Japanese Story, Muriel’s Wedding and Strictly Ballroom and further work on Road to Perdition, Elizabeth and more. She’s worked with an influenced industry leaders – among them Sam Mendes, Baz Luhrm... [More]

To be a successful Field/Story producer you need to be a great storyteller, be highly organized, have great interpersonal skills, be great at troubleshooting, and be a great communicator. Good Field Producers are in high demand in Factual TV, Current Affairs and documentaries.This courses is ideal for anyone who is already working in a Production role and want to upgrade their skills, including Production Assistants, Production Co-Ordinators, Runners or Researcher. Field and Story P... [More]

A film approved and made under a co-production arrangement is treated as a ‘national film’ of each of the participating countries, and is accorded all the benefits each country offers. Since the inception of the official co-production program in Australia in 1986, treaties have been signed with 11 countries. The concept of co-productions may seem daunting at first, however in a small film & TV market like Australia’s they can be the final push to bring projects to fruition. Golden G... [More]

The low budget feature film – it can be done. Tait Brady’s two day intensive course for emerging feature film producers, writers, directors and line producers will show you all the insider tips and skills to make your low budget feature a success. Both practical and conceptual, this workshop aims to lead filmmakers through the minefield of low budget production possibilities and pitfalls. Using case studies from a range of recent productions – ultra low budget (under A$500,000) and ... [More]

A completed short film script in five days! Students will learn from working Industry professionals and plenty of inspiring guest speakers to take their stories from initial idea through treatment and draft stage, to a finished, polished script ready to be pitched on the final day. Story structure, theme, character, roadblocks, arcs, tension, conflict and resolution will be explored as they are used in filmmaking through fast paced lectures and workshops. With five days and a maximu... [More]

The script is ready – are you? In this five day filmmaking intensive, students will get busy in the AFTRS state-of-the-art studio to take a Winter School Week One winning script to screen. Experienced industry filmmakers will guide students with lectures and fast paced practical exercises to conquer the major areas of Directing, Cinematography, and Post Production. You’ll learn how to analyse, break down, and rehearse a short script, to plan a shoot and work within a budget, work wi... [More]

“I always tell actors when they go in for an audition: Don’t be afraid to do what your instincts tell you. You may not get the part, but people will take notice.” - Robert De Niro 25 year veteran Director Ian Watson (Wildside, Farscape, Dance Academy, Underbelly, Love My Way) will lead this course aimed at emerging Directors that want to be sure they are getting the most from their own audition process. Day 1 will cover: Choosing the right scenes Getting the most out of the actor Kn... [More]

Andrew Knight ‘s work is synonymous with landmark Australian television and film. He has written five feature films and more than 1,200 hours of top rating drama, comedy and live programs. Co-founder of Artist Services, one of the most creative and prolific production houses in Australia, Andrew co-created , wrote and executive produced Seachange, the highest rating series ever on the ABC, and has continued to write one award winning production after another (Full Frontal, Fast Forw... [More]