Impending changes to the regulatory environment could negatively impact the type of stories that are told by documentary filmmakers but the sector's ability to adapt should not be underestimated, according to experts.
Australians in Film has partnered with the Hollywood Foreign Press Association and Screen Australia to launch Untapped, a breakthrough talent development program for undiscovered and underrepresented filmmakers.
SBS has launched a three-year incubator program to support the development of emerging screenwriters from underrepresented backgrounds.
Netflix and Germany's ZDFE have co-commissioned a 10-episode teen surfing drama from Werner Film Productions, set to get underway in Victoria later this month.
Screen Producers Australia CEO Matthew Deaner used his opening address at Screen Forever to highlight the importance of Australia's screen industry forging a path to independent success amid the country's increasingly popularity as a destination for international productions.
Eric Bana and Robert Connolly are set to reunite on a new feature adaptation, this time taking on Tim Winton's 'Blueback'.
"The Minister should acknowledge and encourage our home-grown creatives too. The Australians working on local stories and projects, generating IP, creating jobs and running small businesses as they tell our stories; stories that must be told," write Shadow Minister for the Arts and Industrial Relations Tony Burke and Shadow Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland.
Australia's lucky run at the box office continues. Four out of the five highest grossing films last weekend were local titles, with new release 'Long Story Short' joining the ranks with 'The Dry', 'Penguin Bloom' and 'High Ground'.