First Break is a unique professional development program designed by the Australian Writers’ Guild to give talented, aspiring screenwriters the opportunity to gain in-demand and practical skills, develop their understanding of the industry, and build industry connections.
Supported by state funding agencies, First Break forms part of AWG’s ongoing, overall professional development strategy to nurture talent and provide opportunities to talented writers by connecting them with the industry.
Working as a note-taker in a writers’ room has always been a great entry point to the industry. The trouble is, how do you gain the necessary skills to apply for these types of roles? And once you have the skills, how do you break in?
First Break is designed to provide participants with the skills, training and understanding to obtain work as a note-taker, get their start in the industry and build vital networks as they do.
The AWG has successfully run First Break training across Australia including the Seeding Storytellers – First Break for First Nations in partnership with Screenworks and Screenrights.
At the conclusion of First Break, participants are promoted to the industry via the AWG Pathways website. The Pathways First Break tab will be a permanent resource for industry members looking for talented new writers who have skills to offer as note-takers.
Looking for a trained note-taker?
Our First Break graduates are available to hire.