The Residencies
Over the last decade, Shark Island Kangaroo Valley has hosted over 100 residencies and creative development labs for documentary filmmakers, artists, actors, musicians and writers.
We’re excited to announce a new DEVELOPMENT initiative from SHARK ISLAND FOUNDATION and AIDC’s CUT TO THE CHASE.
Applications are now open for one of FOUR $25,000 development grants and a placement in the new Shark Island Kangaroo Valley Development Lab.
The Shark Island Foundation Feature Docs Pitch gives producers the opportunity to pitch at AIDC 2026 (2–5 March) for the chance to receive a development grant of $25,000 and to participate in a four-day creative residency at Shark Island Kangaroo Valley (12–15 May, 2026) to progress a feature documentary project.
Producers are invited to submit a feature-length documentary project (75 mins+) in development with a plan for theatrical or streaming release. The story can be of any genre but must be character-driven, have a distinctive point of view, with a creative vision and clear artistic style. Ideally, it should have the potential to shift thinking.
The Lab launches in 2026 as a four-day creative residency. Two members from each team will work closely with acclaimed filmmaker and story consultant Joseph Nizeti and the Shark Island team, who will provide tailored guidance to help shape and elevate their stories.
For more information about Shark Island Kangaroo Valley see sharkisland.com.au
Please note: applications for the Shark Island Feature Docs Pitch are made through AIDC’s Cut to the Chase program with applications closing on Friday 23 January, 2026 at 23:59 AEDT (or late deadline Friday 30 January, 2026). Projects must also apply to Documentary Australia for fiscal sponsorship (round closes 27th January, 2026)
