SPA Opens Applications For Ones To Watch 2026/27 Program — Screen Producers Australia has opened applications for SPA Ones To Watch 2026/27, its flagship professional development and mentoring program for emerging Australian screen talent.
The 2026/27 program introduces two dedicated pathways for the first time: Ones To Watch Producers and Ones To Watch Creators.
SPA says the expanded structure will provide tailored mentoring, professional development and industry access for early-career producers, writers, directors and screen creatives.
Two Pathways For Emerging Screen Talent
Each successful applicant will be matched with an experienced industry mentor for one-on-one guidance.
Participants will also access a six-month series of industry webinars, discounted registration, curated industry meetings and networking opportunities at SCREEN FOREVER in 2027.
The program also continues to offer eligible participants the chance to apply for the $20,000 Ones To Watch Screen Placement, proudly supported by Screen Australia. The placement supports a professional development engagement at an international production company.
SPA Expands The Program
SPA CEO Matthew Deaner said the expanded program reflects the changing pathways into the Australian screen industry.
Matthew Deaner said:
“The introduction of dedicated Producers and Creators strands recognises the different career pathways, skills and business models shaping the future of Australian screen content.”
Screen Australia Chief Operating Officer Grainne Brunsdon said developing emerging talent remains critical to the future of Australia’s screen sector.
Grainne Brunsdon said:
“Ones To Watch continues to play an important role in that pipeline.”
More Than 180 Practitioners Supported
Since its inception, Ones To Watch has supported more than 180 emerging and early-career producers.
Recent alumni highlights include Caden Pearson joining NITV in the content commissioning team, Rae Choi completing placements with Heretic Films, Intake Films and Paloma Productions, and Georgia Noe, Rae Choi and Scarlett Koehne participating in the SBS and Screen Australia Digital Originals program.
Other alumni outcomes include Joseph Meldrum joining NITV as a Commissioning Editor, Shontell Ketchell writing on BBC Studios’ Ghosts: Australia, and Mad Ones feature Jimpa premiering at Sundance in 2025.
Applications for Ones To Watch 2026/27 are now open at screenproducers.org.au/ones-to-watch.
Applications for Ones To Watch 2026/27 close Monday 17 August 2026 at 2.00pm AEST.
For more Screen Producers Australia news, visit TV Central’s Screen Producers Australia section. Applications for Ones To Watch 2026/27 are available through Screen Producers Australia.
