SBS launches Future Frames initiative to support emerging First Nations video editing talent

SBS has launched Future Frames, an initiative supporting career pathways for emerging First Nations film and video editors, through a bespoke program of hands-on experience, mentorship and professional development.

Future Frames will support a selected applicant with the opportunity to build their craft and take the next step in their career through an intensive three-week development program at SBS in Sydney on Cammeraygal Country. They’ll be provided with practical training and mentorship from SBS and NITV editors, along with access to professional equipment and software with the support of Adobe. The Australian Screen Editors Guild is also supporting the initiative, including by providing a year’s membership.

Developed through SBS’s Technology Division, Future Frames is part of SBS’s commitment to supporting pathways for under-represented talent in media and contributing to the growth of First Nations expertise in diverse areas within the TV and video post-production sector.

SBS Director, First Nations, Tanya Denning-Orman, said: “Future Frames is an exciting national call-out for emerging First Nations video editors, supporting talent development, building industry capacity and strengthening representation across the sector. It reflects our ongoing commitment to elevating First Nations voices – through the stories we share and the people who shape them.”

SBS Chief Technology Officer, Darren Farnham, added: “Future Frames is all about creating practical pathways into editing and post-production, with hands-on training, access to industry technology and mentoring designed to build capability and provide valuable real-world experience. We’re looking forward to seeing entries from passionate storytellers across the country, and working closely with the successful applicant next year.”

Acclaimed Australian actor and producer, Aaron Pedersen, also lent his support to the initiative: “Future Frames is a great opportunity for First Nations filmmakers to develop a promising career in the industry. With an initiative like this, we further build a stronger foundation for a better film industry by giving future Indigenous storytellers a chance to positively contribute to the development and representation of Indigenous stories from an Indigenous perspective. They can continue to tell their stories like they did for many thousands of years.’’

Future Frames is open to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants from anywhere in Australia, with travel and accommodation in Sydney covered for the selected participant. Applicants can submit a 250-500-word written submission or a 2–3-minute video to enter, and will be assessed by a panel including SBS and NITV representatives and a leading First Nations industry figure, based on creativity, potential and passion for storytelling.

This initiative supports the commitments in SBS’s Elevate Reconciliation Action Plan (2022-2026) to contribute to the growth and development of First Nations talent, and the strength of the Indigenous production sector and content pipeline.

Entries are now open and close on 9 February, 2026. For more information and to learn more about how to apply, visit futureframes.sbs.com.au.

For a pdf of this media release, click here.