WIFT Australia x CinefestOZ Writers’ Retreat

The retreat is open to female and gender-diverse screenwriters who are Professional Members of WIFT Australia. Applicants can be emerging or established writers working in any scripted format, including film, TV, online, or hybrid.

You must be a Professional WIFT Australia Member with at least 3 months’ left until your membership expires at the time of applying.

You must be able to demonstrate that you have suitable experience. We define this as you having been the Sole or Lead Writer on a project (that may or may not be the same project you are applying with) that is either:

• Currently receiving funding support from a broadcaster, streamer, major online content provider or screen agency/organisation (i.e. Screenwest, Screen Australia, Stan, YouTube); 
  and/or

• Not receiving funding support but does have a market or distribution partner attached (i.e. Stan, ABC, Binge, etc); 
  and/or

• Has been developed as part of a scheme run by an Australian screen agency or organisation (e.g.: AWG Pathways, Screenability, AFTRS Talent Camp, Plot Twist Programs, Cinespace’s Package to Pitch, Impact Australia);
  and/or

• Is unfunded, but you have a credit as the Lead Writer on a or series of completed scripted screen project totalling at least 30 minutes (television episode, feature film, short films, or web series).

If you don’t qualify under any of these criteria, you are welcome to demonstrate what other suitable experience you have that will qualify you for this experience.

No. You just need to have a scripted project in development. This can be at concept, outline, treatment, or draft stage. The retreat is designed to support writers in progressing their work.

The 2025 retreat runs from Friday 29 August to Friday 5 September in Busselton, Western Australia, during the 2025 CinefestOZ Film Festival. Participants will have accommodation provided to them from Friday 29 August to Saturday 6 September.

Regarded as Australia’s premier destination film festival by the filmmakers and film-lovers alike, CinefestOZ is Australia’s equivalent to Cannes Film Festival.

Taking place this year from 30 August 2025 to 7 September 2025 across Bunbury, Busselton, Dunsborough, and Margaret River, the festival delivers immersive film experiences in the region’s cinemas, wineries, boutique breweries, small bars and galleries.

Its annual Industry Program features leading screen industry guests participating in workshops, panels, in-depth discussions, and VIP networking events.

• Accommodation, meals, and local transport

• Flights for participants travelling from interstate

• One-on-one mentoring with a creative development consultant

• Access to daily group reflections and wellness activities

• A complimentary pass to the CinefestOZ Industry Program (4–5 Sept)

• Invitations to exclusive networking events

• A ticket to the Screenwest supported Creative Development Workshop on Wednesday 3 Sept

There is no cost to attend the retreat if selected. All major expenses, including accommodation, meals, and programming and flights for interstate participants, are covered thanks to our partners.

A small cohort of up to four participants will be selected to ensure each writer receives tailored, high-impact support and mentoring. Two places are reserved for West Australian members.

Yes. The retreat is open to WIFT Australia members nationally and thanks to our partners Minderoo Pictures, this year we are delighted that we can cover the cost of flights for our interstate participants.