Screen NSW Short To Feature Fast Track returns in 2026 – Screen NSW has opened applications for the latest round of its Short To Feature Fast Track initiative.
The program gives emerging to mid-level NSW creatives up to $75,000 to make a short film or proof of concept. It also includes script development funds for a low-budget feature film.
For the Australian screen sector, the initiative gives filmmakers a clearer path from short-form work to feature development. It also connects selected teams with experienced producers and wider industry networks.
Applications Open
Applications are now open for Stage 1 of the 2026 program. They close on Monday 28 September.
Screen NSW says the funding will help teams move short film projects to the next stage. It will also help them attract further finance for a low-budget feature film.
In 2026, the initiative will support up to three teams.
Industry Support
Each selected team will work with an experienced executive producer. That producer will guide the team across production and development.
Screen NSW says the initiative aims to find fresh NSW voices. It also aims to spotlight the next generation of filmmakers in the state.
Short To Feature Fast Track launched in 2023 and has supported nine teams so far. Since then, supported projects have reached major Australian and international festivals.
Those festivals include Sundance Film Festival, SXSW Austin, Fantasia Film Festival, Palm Springs International ShortFest, Sydney Film Festival, Melbourne International Film Festival, SXSW Sydney and Revelation Perth International Film Festival.
In previous rounds, Nick Batzias, Kristina Ceyton, Vincent Sheehan, Kath Shelper and Liz Watts have joined the program as executive producers.
Screen NSW On The Program
Screen NSW Executive Director Kylie Munnich said the program has a proven record of discovering and elevating NSW filmmakers.
“Short films are an important pathway for the next generation of filmmakers to hone their craft and develop their network. This program provides vital funding for teams while they work to attract financing for their feature projects.”
Short To Feature Fast Track recipient Gemma Lee said the program gave her team confidence, mentorship and support. As a result, the team moved Echoes in Time into its next stage of development.
Lee said executive producer Kath Shelper and a workshop led by Brita McVeigh helped refine the project’s narrative and creative vision.
After the team completed its proof of concept, Echoes in Time screened in competition at the Fantasia International Film Festival. The project also received an invitation to the Frontieres Shorts to Features Lab.
How To Apply
Applications for Stage 1 close on Monday 28 September.
For more screen industry stories, visit TV Central’s Screen Australia section. Full guidelines and application details are available through the public Screen NSW Short To Feature Fast Track initiative page.
