YOUR GAMES CAREER STARTS HERE

Accelerating emerging games talent through targeted support and industry access.

The Opportunity

Screenworks is proud to launch the Digital Games Pathway Program – a new professional development initiative designed to support emerging and early-career games practitioners to take the next step in their careers.

With the support of Screen NSW, this inaugural program provides targeted financial support, industry access and career-building opportunities for individuals working across the digital games sector, including game design, development, art, production, narrative, audio and related disciplines. 







How It Works

Applicants are required to submit a 12-month Career Plan to the value of $2,000 for professional development, with an additional $1,500 for travel support, outlining activities to grow their skills and advance their careers.

This may include:

  • Training or professional development courses
  • Attendance at conferences, events, or markets
  • Mentoring or guidance from industry professionals

Career plans should be practical, focused and demonstrate a strong commitment to professional growth within the digital games industry.

What the Program Offers

The successful applicant will receive a tailored support package, including:

  • $2,000 professional development bursary
    To support skills development, training, mentoring, conferences or other approved career-advancing activities.
  • $1,500 travel support
    To assist with travel costs for industry events, markets, conferences or approved professional opportunities.
  • Complimentary IGEA membership  (valued at $500)
    Providing access to Australia’s peak games industry body, including resources, networking opportunities and industry insights.
  • Industry connections and guidance
    Opportunities to build meaningful relationships with industry professionals and expand your professional network.

Delivered by Screenworks with the support of Screen NSW and the Interactive Games & Entertainment Association (IGEA), with IGEA assisting in the assessment of applications.

Who Can Apply?

This program is open to emerging and early-career games practitioners from regional NSW, who are committed to building a sustainable career in the digital games sector and can clearly articulate how this support will help them progress.

Applicants may be working in studio, indie or hybrid environments, or transitioning into the games industry from a related creative field.



Selection Criteria

Applicants will be assessed on:

  • The effectiveness of the proposed Career Plan to build relevant industry skills and overcome career barriers while achieving future creative and career goals.
  • The skills, achievements, experience, and track record of the applicant, including the quality of previous work.
  • The potential of the applicant to contribute to and enhance the growth of the games sector in regional NSW.

What Do I Need To Apply?

  • Completed application form
  • CV/resume
  • 12-Month Career Plan – download and complete the template, then upload with your application
  • Proof of regional residency (e.g., driver’s licence, proof of age card)
  • Proof of Australian citizenship and/or permanent resident status

Definitions, guidelines, terms & conditions:

Please read the Program Guidelines and Terms & Conditions before applying.

The Digital Games Pathway Program 2026 is supported by Screen NSW, with the additional support of the Interactive Games and Entertainment Association. Screenworks greatly appreciates the support of our 2026 Digital Games Pathway Program partners.