ABC offers Indigenous documentary placement

The ABC in partnership with the Australian International Documentary Conference has opened applications for the Indigenous Documentary Placement program for 2025.

The Indigenous Documentary Placement provides one mid-career Indigenous practitioner with a unique opportunity to undertake a paid extended placement with the ABC.

“The Indigenous Documentary Placement is an important initiative that we are so proud to support in collaboration with the AIDC. The ABC is committed to the development of First Nations creatives by providing opportunities that enhance skills, build industry experience, and support potential career pathways. We look forward to welcoming this year’s placement recipient to the ABC,” director of  content Jennifer Collins said.

Natasha Gadd, the creative director of the Australian International Documentary Conference said the storytelling talent amongst First Nations practitioners continued to impress both here in Australia and on the world stage.

“AIDC is committed to creating and contributing to opportunities for Indigenous-led storytelling and new industry pathways and is thrilled to be co-presenting the Indigenous Documentary Placement with the ABC for a fourth year,” Ms Gadd said.

“Since 2019, AIDC has welcomed over 470 new and returning practitioners to the Indigenous Creators Program and this placement is an opportunity to extend this commitment outside of the AIDC conference.

“Following the achievements of previous recipients, Anna-Marie Harding, Daniel King and Perun Bonser, we are excited for what possibilities lie ahead for this year’s recipient and what they will bring to both ABC and the documentary landscape.”

The successful applicant will be embedded in the ABC for a period of four months based in Sydney. The placement’s goal is to provide the practitioner with the opportunity to develop their skills in documentary and/or factual development and production within the context of a public broadcaster with a broader view towards creating employment pathways.

The placement will commence with the ABC in early June 2025. The successful candidate will receive an equivalent annual producer-level salary of up to $94,620 per annum which equates to approximately $40,000 for four months inclusive of statutory superannuation contributions. The participant will be contracted by the ABC.

Practitioners from all states and territories are welcome to apply and may be eligible to seek additional support from their relevant state or territory screen agency to help with travel costs

The 2024 recipient was Alice Springs-based Palawa woman, Anna-Marie Harding, a director and cinematographer who won Australian Cinematographers Society state awards in the wildlife and short film categories.

“The ABC placement completely shifted the way I think about storytelling and filmmaking,” Ms Harding said.

“Every day was a chance to pick up new skills, refine my craft, and get a better understanding of how the industry works.”

Applicants are invited to attend a virtual information session hosted by Kelrick Martin, Head of Indigenous, ABC, and Justin Fenwick, Indigenous Employment Manager, ABC, on Wednesday, April 16, 11:00am-12:00pm AEST.

To register interest in the Information Session, email [email protected]

Applicant enquiries about the 2025 Indigenous Documentary Placement should be directed to Kelrick Martin, Head of Indigenous, ABC: [email protected]

• Applications close 11:59pm AEST Sunday, April 27, 2025.