Applications are now open for the highly anticipated 2025 Film Intensive Script to Screen (FISS) program, a premier initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of skilled screen practitioners in Queensland.

Screen Queensland is proud to announce the return of the FISS program to Cairns and its exciting expansion to Brisbane in 2025. This comprehensive industry development program aims to equip new and emerging crew members with vital, job-ready skills and coveted industry credits. Participants will gain hands-on experience in various critical roles and departments, including camera operation, costume design, lighting, production management, and location scouting.

Reflecting on the success of the inaugural 2024 FISS program in Far North Queensland, it is noteworthy that 66 per cent of participants secured paid industry positions. Many of these opportunities arose from high-profile projects like the reality series “Aussie Shore,” filmed by Paramount+ and MTV Entertainment Studios in Cairns.

The 2025 iteration of the program promises to be even more impactful. Selected participants from Brisbane and Cairns will embark on a six-month journey of intensive training. They will benefit from mentorship by seasoned industry professionals, engaging in a series of immersive workshops. This hands-on training will culminate in the production of three original short films, providing invaluable practical experience.

Jacqui Feeney, CEO of Screen Queensland, emphasized the growing demand for Queensland’s globally recognized crew base. She highlighted that expanding the successful FISS program to both Brisbane and Cairns represents a significant boost for the local screen sector. “We are witnessing unprecedented levels of screen production across the state, necessitating a wide range of screen skills,” Feeney stated. “Screen Queensland projects alone generated an estimated 5,900 employment opportunities in the last financial year.”

Feeney also expressed pride in partnering with Essential Screen Skills, Kolperi Outback Filmmaking, and Screen Well to spearhead this initiative. “This multi-faceted program delivers tangible results for our local screen industry and initiates sustainable career pathways for emerging below-the-line crew members right here in Queensland.”

Mark Melrose, Head of Studios and Physical Production, echoed these sentiments. He described FISS as an invaluable opportunity for aspiring screen practitioners, including school leavers and students from TAFE and universities. “With its proven track record of providing essential foundational training, FISS is an excellent stepping stone for anyone looking to break into the screen industry,” Melrose noted.

The program, funded by the Queensland Government’s Department of Employment, Small Business and Training, is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive screen sector. Melrose strongly encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as well as individuals living with disabilities.

Moneth Montemayor, Project Manager for Essential Screen Skills, emphasized the program’s role in bridging the gap for school leavers, emerging filmmakers, and career changers. “We are thrilled to train a cohort of entry-level peers under the guidance of experienced industry professionals,” Montemayor said. “This program will be particularly beneficial for individuals with transferable skills from other sectors.”

The Film Intensive Script to Screen program is funded through the Workforce Connect Fund and supported by the Queensland Government’s “Good people. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-2032.” This initiative is delivered in partnership with Essential Screen Skills, Kolperi Outback Filmmaking, and Screen Well.

For more details on how to apply and further information about the program, please visit our official website or contact our support team.