New national accelerator for documentary producers

Screen Australia has launched the Above the Line Documentary Accelerator, a national program to help producers develop premium, original documentary content with international reach, with a focus on limited and returnable series for broadcasters, streamers and online platforms.

How it works

• Up to 10 mid-career practitioners from across Australia.
• A three-week, in-person intensive in Melbourne, 1–20 November 2026.
• Masterclasses, pitch training, audience insight and project ideation sessions.
• A final pitch to industry decision-makers, with one project able to win an ABC development grant.

The program is led by Fatima Salaria, Executive Chair of the Edinburgh TV Festival and Head of Factual at Dancing Ledge Productions, whose credits span premium documentaries, returnable factual formats and popular entertainment. Applications closed on 13 August 2026.

Why it matters

Returnable documentary series are one of the strongest formats for international sales. Building that skill in Melbourne strengthens the whole local industry, from development through to delivery.

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