Spectrum Films launches Australia’s first neuro-inclusive VFX initiative with Screen NSW support – Spectrum Films has secured support from Screen NSW for the internship phase of Lumina, Australia’s first neuro-inclusive visual effects initiative designed to create career pathways for neurodivergent creatives entering the VFX industry.
Developed by Spectrum Films’ Head of VFX, Adam Archer, in partnership with Bus Stop Films, Lumina aims to provide meaningful employment opportunities through specialised training and industry experience.
Following the successful completion of the educational phase of the program, participants will now transition into the next stage: a 12-week paid internship within Spectrum Films’ VFX Department. Screen NSW funding will support the four NSW-based participants undertaking the internship program.
Creating pathways into the VFX industry
Lumina was developed in consultation with the Autistic community and provides tutor-led online training in rotoscoping and matchmove using the Boris FX Suite. The initiative is designed to equip participants with both foundational knowledge and practical skills required for employment within the visual effects sector.
The educational phase of the program was supported by Netflix, with additional contributions from Dell Technologies, Boris FX and Xenon.
Adam Archer said the latest funding represented a significant milestone for the initiative.
“With this support, our participants are now well on their way to undertaking a successful paid internship within the VFX Department at Spectrum Films.
Screen NSW support ensures each participant has a well-rounded experience while completing their internship and provides the strongest possible platform for their future careers once the program concludes.”
Building a more inclusive screen sector
Virginia Moir, VFX Initiatives Producer at Spectrum Films, said the support would help strengthen the long-term impact of Lumina.
“Having Screen NSW generous support for the internship phase is a game changer for Lumina.
This support not only strengthens the program itself but also reinforces the importance of creating inclusive opportunities within the screen industry. We are incredibly excited to see our participants continue to grow and thrive in a professional VFX environment.”
Screen NSW Executive Director Kylie Munnich said initiatives such as Lumina play an important role in building a more representative industry.
“Screen NSW is dedicated to fostering a more inclusive sector, and initiatives like Lumina are important to ensure all practitioners have pathways and career escalation opportunities in the screen industry.
I’m thrilled we can support these four NSW-based participants as they gain valuable hands-on experience at Spectrum Films, so they are well equipped to take the next steps in their career.”
Founded in 1964, Spectrum Films is one of Australasia’s leading post-production and visual effects companies, while Bus Stop Films has delivered filmmaking programs for people with disabilities and individuals from marginalised communities since 2009.
Lumina represents a significant step towards creating a more accessible and inclusive future for Australia’s visual effects industry.
Lumina Program HERE
TV Central Netflix content HERE
Spectrum Films launches Australia’s first neuro-inclusive VFX initiative with Screen NSW support
