INDUSTRY CONSULTATION SURVEY

SAFC Program Guidelines Updates

The South Australian Film Corporation (SAFC) is proposing changes to a number of our film & TV programs and program guidelines.

To ensure that our programs and support activities meet industry needs, we are running a formal industry consultation process on all proposed changes from 29 October to 14 November 2026.  

These proposed changes have been informed by recent industry feedback and align with the SAFC’s Strategic Plan 2025-28, which outlines the SAFC’s core purpose: to empower SA screen production through strategic, transparent and impactful use of available funds.

The overarching goal of the proposed changes are to:

• Maximise SA production activity for increased job opportunities and SA spend
• Increase the diversity of practitioners accessing SAFC funded programs, and
• Support SA producers

An overview of the proposed changes for each program is listed below. Where relevant, you can download the proposed new guidelines in a clean format and in mark up.

We are consulting on these changes through the survey linked below. Following the consultation period, stakeholder feedback will be reviewed and considered before the new guidelines are finalised, with the full suite of updated programs to be launched in early January 2026.

Until then, the current guidelines will continue to apply for all open programs.

A high-level summary of the feedback received and SAFC response will be published prior to the release of the final guidelines to provide transparency around decision making.

SAFC Film & TV Programs

• Screen Production Fund
  • The proposed changes to the Screen Production Fund are focused on bringing clarity on process and availability, providing consistent returns of SA Government investment into screen production, and progressing towards achieving SAFC Diversity and Inclusion targets.

• ABC Content Pipeline Fund
  • Creation of a new set of guidelines separate to the Screen Production Fund.
  • The proposed changes to the ABC Content Pipeline Fund mirrors funding available from other screen agencies and aims to advantage SA Led projects.

• Post-Production, Digital and Visual Effects (PDV) Rebate
  • The proposed changes to the Post-Production, Digital and Visual Effects (PDV) Rebate aim to maximise clarity, transparency and consistency for applicants.

• Film Lab: New Voices
  • The SAFC is working with our funding partners to confirm another round of Film Lab: New Voices. In lieu of guidelines, we have prepared a summary of proposed program changes for your consideration.
  • The proposed changes for Film Lab: New Voices aim to respond to industry feedback, maximise clarity, transparency and consistency, and deliver on Diversity and Inclusion targets.

• Matched Market Development
  • The proposed changes for Matched Market Development take into account previous industry feedback while ensuring funds are managed transparently.

• Diversity Development
  • The proposed changes to the Targeted Development program focuses on supporting diverse writers.

• Export Market Travel Fund
  • The proposed changes to the Export Market Travel Fund respond to industry feedback around international market travel while prioritising applicants who successfully convert projects into production.

• Crew Attachments
  • The proposed change to Professional Crew Attachments seek to maximise clarity, transparency and consistency for applicants.
  • The SAFC is proposing the discontinuation of Targeted Diversity Attachments, with further consultation to come on the most effective programs to support diversity in the sector, including through the establishment of a Diversity & Inclusion Industry Advisory Group.

• Revolving Loan Fund
  • The proposed discontinuation of the Revolving Loan Fund is in response to new lenders now serving this market.

Administration and decisions

The SAFC is proposing two key general changes to administration and decisions:

• A two-stage assessment process will operate for most funds with reduced application materials at initial eligibility stage, then if accepted, further documentation will be requested for full assessment.
• Applications are accepted anytime (unless otherwise stated). Those below a set threshold* are processed upon submission of a complete application, only higher requests must follow Board timeframes.

*Guidelines for Screen Production Fund, ABC Content Pipeline Fund and SA PDV Rebate include relevant funding thresholds.

First Nations Programs

The SAFC is currently consulting on the most effective programs to support First Nations practitioners. We welcome suggestions and feedback from industry as our First Nations team works to finalise the new First Nations Screen Strategy.

Formal consultation is open until COB 14 November. We also welcome general feedback at any time via [email protected]