Shark Island Foundation gives a limited number of Development, Production and Outreach grants for documentary each year.
All donations to filmmakers are made through Documentary Australia.
Projects must be on their ‘Approved List’ for consideration. You can submit your project to Documentary Australia here.
DEVELOPMENT
The Development Fund is not currently taking applications but will be open again in November 2025.
Development grants will be offered through a new initiative to be launched at the end of the year.
Standby for an announcement on how to apply for development funds for 2026.
PRODUCTION
The Production fund is for films at pre-production, production or post-production stage.
The key requirements:
- Footage to share (concept reel, character compile or rough cut)
- 1–2 page overview
- Other sources of funding or a strategy for attracting funding
- A clear idea of who the audience is, how to reach them and the broader impact the film may have.
OUTREACH
This fund is for films at post-production stage. We are keen to offer these grants to films we have supported through a Production grant.
What we need to consider your application:
- a rough cut of your film
- A known pathway to audience (distributor, broadcaster, streaming platform, community engagement strategy)
- Partnerships in place
- A realistic and targeted outreach plan
The Foundation will also consider offering grants to a film’s key partner organisation if the film can be used to further their work.