Head of Development

Head of Development Join to apply for the Head of Development role at Screen Australia. Screen Australia is the Commonwealth Government's primary agency for supporting Australian screen projects, practitioners and businesses. We support projects of scale and ambition, distinct local stories told with strong creative voices and risk‑taking content for all platforms. The successful candidate will be engaged under the Screen Australia Act 2008. About us Screen Australia is dedicated to supporting and shaping Australia’s screen industry. Through strategic funding and industry partnerships, we champion diverse and compelling storytelling across feature films, television, and online platforms. Our commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration ensures Australian stories thrive locally and internationally. About the role Reporting to the Director of Narrative Content, the Head of Development will lead the Development Unit for Narrative Content Development. This role oversees funding programs, assessment processes, and slate management for development initiatives across feature drama, television drama, and direct‑to‑audience/online/interactive platforms. You will collaborate with the Head of Production, Head of Market & Audience, and other stakeholders to design and deliver programs that support the creative development of projects. The position also involves representing Screen Australia at industry events and maintaining strong relationships with key players in the screen sector. Key responsibilities Lead and manage the Investment Manager team for Narrative Content Development, fostering a high‑performing and collaborative culture. Lead the assessment process and assess applications for Narrative Content Development Investment direct funding and other related funding programs and initiatives. Work closely with the Director of Narrative Content on funding programs, guidelines, budgets, resource allocation and policy and assist in reviews of programs. Collaborate across departments on program design, resource allocation, and delivery. Prepare Narrative Content decision funding recommendation papers, reports, and Board submissions. Build and maintain strong relationships with producers, creatives, commissioners, and industry bodies. Monitor industry trends and contribute to policy reviews and process improvements. Contribute to the promotion of Gender Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in the screen sector. About you Extensive experience and a strong track record in relevant roles such as development, production, financing, directing, distributing, and writing across feature drama, television drama, and direct‑to‑audience/online/interactive projects. Extensive experience in script development across diverse narrative projects and platforms and proven understanding of the fundamental principles of narrative screenwriting for all genres. A demonstrated understanding of production financing, budgets, and processes. Exceptional creative judgment and ability to evaluate ideas, scripts, and cuts. High‑level knowledge of the Australian and international screen industry, the key players, practitioners and market trends. Proven ability to make fair, impactful decisions, outside of own personal taste using sound judgment. The benefits A supportive and inclusive workplace culture. Competitive salary and benefits, including 15.4% super. Professional development opportunities and industry engagement. The chance to contribute to diverse and compelling screen projects. Screen Australia is committed to increasing workplace inclusion and diversity and encourages applications from a diverse range of backgrounds. Please note, while at Screen Australia, employees are unable to access any state or Screen Australia funding, in addition to freelancing on any Screen Australia productions. How to apply For further information on this position and to apply, please visit the Screen Australia website: Screen Australia jobs . Applications must be received by 5pm Friday, 12 December 2025. Seniority level Executive Employment type Full‑time Job function Business Development and Sales Movies, Videos, and Sound Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Screen Australia by 2x. #J-18808-Ljbffr