First Break Vic: Presented by the Australian Writers' Guild and VicScreen

19 May, 2024

The Australian Writers’ Guild and VicScreen are pleased to launch First Break, a unique professional development program designed to give talented, aspiring screenwriters the opportunity to gain in-demand and practical skills, develop their understanding of the industry, and build industry connections.
 
Supported by VicScreen, First Break forms part of AWG’s ongoing, overall professional development strategy to nurture talent and provide opportunities to talented writers by connecting them with the industry.
 
Working as a note-taker in a writers’ room has always been a great entry point to the industry. The trouble is, how do you gain the necessary skills to apply for these types of roles? And once you have the skills, how do you break in?
 
First Break is designed to provide participants with the skills, training and understanding to obtain work as a note-taker, get their start in the industry and build vital networks as they do.
 
Successful applicants will also receive a 12-month associate membership with the AWG.
 
At the conclusion of First Break, participants will be promoted to the industry via the AWG Pathways website. The Pathways First Break tab will be a permanent resource for industry members looking for talented new writers who have skills to offer as note-takers.

Minister for Creative Industries, Colin Brooks said, 'Through our VICSCREEN strategy, the Allan Labor Government is fostering new voices and talent in the screen industry, providing the tools and opportunities they need to develop successful screen careers. First Break will arm emerging screenwriters with all-important hands-on experience, giving participants the practical skills and confidence to work in writers’ rooms and script departments.'

First Break opens for applications Monday 20 May 2024 and will close 5pm Monday 10 June 2024. 

Find out more and apply HERE.