A new partnership between the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) and Netflix ANZ will provide two scholarships valued at $50,000 to First Nations creatives, offering recipients access to world-class training and industry opportunities.
The Netflix First Nations Pathways Scholarships is a new extension of AFTRS' On Country Pathways Program (OCPP), a First Nations-led initiative delivering bespoke film, audio and storytelling workshops on Country in remote, rural and regional communities across Australia.
Aimed at supporting emerging First Nations creatives, the scholarships include complimentary access to AFTRS' range of short courses, as well as tailored mentorship opportunities.
With the scholarships open to OCPP participants, more than 120 emerging First Nations creators across Warmun (WA), Bidyadanga (WA), Cairns (QLD), Eden and Gadigal (NSW) will be eligible to apply.
"For First Nations creatives from regional and remote communities, the pathway from On Country training into an AFTRS award course at the Sydney campus is often shaped by structural barriers," said AFTRS Director of First Nations and Outreach, Peter Noble.
Mr Noble said the scholarship would provide a transformative opportunity for recipients, giving talented First Nations storytellers access to world-class training that may otherwise be out of reach.
He said challenges, including relocation, accommodation, travel expenses, living costs and reduced access to industry networks, can all hinder emerging creatives from pursuing further study and professional development.
"The Netflix First Nations Pathways Scholarships directly tackle these barriers to education and industry access, providing greater access to world-class training, which ultimately enriches Australia's storytelling landscape," he said.
Empowering First Nations creatives is a vision shared by Netflix ANZ Director of Policy, Studio and Production, Debra Richards, who said the scholarships would help strengthen Australia's creative industry.
"Through this partnership with AFTRS, we're proud to help create more accessible pathways for First Nations creatives to develop their craft, build industry connections and bring their stories to life," she said.
"Supporting emerging voices has always been central to Netflix's commitment in Australia, and we're excited to continue working with AFTRS to help foster the future of First Nations storytelling.
"Storytelling is one of the most powerful ways we connect with each other, and it's critical that the next generation of Australian storytellers reflects the breadth and richness of communities across the country."
Applications for the Scholarships will open on June 17 and will be available for study in the 2027 academic year.
