The Australian Film Television and Radio School has partnered with Netflix ANZ to launch two new scholarships for First Nations Australians to study full-time at AFTRS’ Sydney campus.
The Netflix First Nations Pathways Scholarships are valued at $50,000 each and are open to participants of AFTRS’ On Country Pathways Program.
The program is a First Nations-led initiative delivering bespoke film, audio and storytelling workshops on Country in remote, rural and regional areas of Australia.
Opening pathways to Sydney campus
More than 120 First Nations emerging creators across film, television, radio and podcasting have participated in the On Country Pathways Program.
The program has run in Warmun, Bidyadanga, Cairns, Eden and Gadigal.
Those participants will be eligible to apply for the new scholarships, which also include complimentary access to AFTRS’ short courses and tailored mentorship programs.
AFTRS on removing barriers
Peter Noble, AFTRS Director, First Nations and Outreach, said the scholarships will extend the reach of the On Country Pathways Program and support First Nations storytellers who may otherwise face barriers to full-time study.
“For First Nations creatives from regional and remote communities, the pathway from On Country training into an AFTRS award course at the Sydney campus is often shaped by structural barriers, such as relocation and ongoing accommodation and travel costs, living and study costs – including equipment and connectivity – and reduced access to vital industry networks,” Noble said.
“The Netflix First Nations Pathways Scholarships directly tackle these barriers to education and industry access, providing a welcome opportunity for accessibility to world-class training, which ultimately enriches Australia’s storytelling landscape.”
Netflix on supporting emerging voices
Debra Richards, Director of Policy, Studio and Production at Netflix ANZ, said the partnership is focused on creating more accessible pathways for First Nations creatives.
“Storytelling is one of the most powerful ways we connect with each other, and it’s critical that the next generation of Australian storytellers reflects the breadth and richness of communities across the country.
“Supporting emerging voices has always been central to Netflix’s commitment in Australia, and we’re excited to continue working with AFTRS to help foster the future of First Nations storytelling.”
Building on previous collaboration
AFTRS and Netflix have previously worked together on the Netflix Indigenous Scholarship Fund, announced in 2021.
Recipients included Nazareth Alfred, Dylan Nicholls and Samantha Laughton.
Netflix and AFTRS are also currently partnering on Leadership Skills for Screen, a short course designed to upskill Heads of Department and people managers in screen production.
Apply when?
Applications for the Netflix First Nations Pathways Scholarships will open on June 17.
The scholarships will be available for study in the 2027 academic year.
Top image: AFTRS