As a Creative City of Film, Sydney is launching two annual funding programmes for 2015.

The Emerging Filmmakers Fund (EFF) supports new and emerging filmmakers in New South Wales (NSW) by funding the production and post-production of short form projects. It provides a funded career development opportunity for creative teams and encourages exploration, experimentation and the chance to master the art of screen storytelling. In partnership with Screen NSW, Metro Screen supports up to three projects with grants of up to $30,000. Each team will work with an Executive Producer, this year provided by Causeway Films, who will offer their guidance and expertise to each project. This is an outstanding opportunity for the next generation of filmmakers in NSW to further their careers. Previous recipients have had their films screened at A-List festivals internationally, including Cannes and Sundance, and have gone on to make successful feature films.

Over the past four years and in partnership with Screen NSW, Metro Screen has also been funding creative storytelling through the Breaks programme, offering eight places for teams to develop and produce a narrative project, with cash funding, equipment and facilities. The eight places will be allocated under different categories, such as narrative short film projects and narrative projects created for online or small screen delivery, and will open the door to a residency programme. Successful applicants will join a three-month part-time intensive Hot House programme working with industry experts to develop their stories and skills before commencing production.