The Australian Writers’ Guild’s The Creators is a career acceleration program for high-calibre mid-career screenwriters to build toward the creation of their own shows.

Up to six writers will be selected to participate in Writers Guild of America-style showrunner and pitching training, run by Jeff Melvoin, in Sydney in October 2025. The program will take place in a retreat-style environment to maximise the opportunity and access to Jeff Melvoin and the other participants.

The program is funded by Screen Australia and Scripted Ink, and is designed and delivered by the Australian Writers' Guild.

Successful applicants will be provided with:

• showrunner and pitching training by Jeff Melvoin;
• a pre-program onboarding webinar with Jeff Melvoin and The Creators Year 2 cohort to share insights into the program and assist in preparation
• travel to Sydney (if relevant)
• per diems and accommodation in the Sydney retreat location
• significant industry promotion as part of the group in domestic and international media.

To be eligible for this program, applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents and meet Screen Australia's Terms of Trade, and be available for the duration of the program. Participants are expected to stay at the Sydney retreat location for the full program dates.

Due to the high-calibre nature of this program, applicants must fulfil all three points below:

1. meet competitive credit criteria in either episodic series, features or theatre;
2. have a slate of episodic projects; and
3. have existing engagement with the global community.

Applicants do not need to be Australian Writers' Guild members. Successful applicants will receive a complimentary 12-month membership to the AWG. See further breakdown of eligibility requirements on the funders website. 

• Email: development@screenaustralia.gov.au