Don’t miss the opportunity to pursue a career in the Costume or Art Department. Screen NSW has opened Stream C of its Crew Development Program, offering successful applicants fully paid 20-week placements on local or offshore productions filmed in NSW. In partnership with NIDA and AFTRS, Screen NSW will also provide an eight-day pre-placement training course, making this a unique traineeship opportunity for entry-level applicants and individuals from priority communities who may find it difficult to gain a foothold in the industry. Applications are now open and close on 13 April 2026.
In late 2025, twenty-five graduating design students from sixteen training institutions were awarded APDG memberships in recognition of their outstanding achievements. We are also pleased to welcome Huxley School of Makeup, whose students are the first makeup graduates to receive APDG certificate awards. Congratulations to all recipients. The Costume Supervisor Pathway Program (CSPP) continues to prove an effective training model. Screen Australia has approved the APDG’s request to reallocate unspent funds to support a fourth placement, expanding this important mid-career mentorship program.
Services and Creative Skills Australia (SaCSA) commissioned Creative Australia to undertake a Critical Arts Scoping Study examining six sectors: performing arts, music, visual arts, craft and design, writing and publishing, and digital games and screen. The study drew on industry consultation to identify current labour, technical and economic challenges. APDG contributed through several roundtable forums focused on crew shortages and career pathways. The findings will inform a national workforce plan and industry-led solutions, including: addressing gaps in formal education and training, better aligning education with industry needs and strengthening support for on-the-job mentoring and traineeships
– Liz Keogh Palmer APDG – Education Representative
Image: Screen NSW initiatives include Crew Development Program for entry-level and mid-career crew from underrepresented backgrounds. Image: Screen NSW