Note: Applications are currently closed

The Bob Maza Fellowship is awarded to an established Indigenous actor to further their professional development, provide longevity in their career and raise their profile internationally.

The fellowship must be used for international travel to attend:
* further training or short courses at an international film training institution
* and/or meetings with agents
* and/or attending castings and establishing contacts in the international arena.

The fellowship is sponsored by the Australian Film Commission's Indigenous Branch to commemorate and celebrate the life and work of Bob Maza, and as a tribute to his passion and commitment to the film and entertainment industry. Previous recipients of the Fellowship have been Aaron Pedersen and Leah Purcell.

Bob Maza 1939-2000
Throughout his career Bob Maza was a role model and mentor to many Indigenous artists. His charisma and statesmanlike presence always made an impact on the people he came into contact with. Cultural educator, playwright, actor and media entrepreneur, Bob was the first Indigenous AFC Commissioner.

He was instrumental in the formation of Indigenous performing companies like Nindethana and the National Black Theatre. In 1970, Bob was a delegate to the 25th United Nations Assembly in New York to highlight the Third World status of Indigenous Australians. In 1981, he was an official delegate to the World Indigenous Festival held in Canada. His acting credits include the films The Fringe Dwellers, Ground Zero and Reckless Kelly, and his plays include Mereki and The Keepers. In 1993, he was awarded an Order of Australia (AM).

Eligibility
To be eligible for the fellowship you need to be an established Indigenous actor working professionally in the film, television and/or theatre industries. You need to have a proven track record and commitment to the acting profession.

See the guidelines and application form PDF below for details on how to apply.

Funding agreement
The fellowship recipient will be required to enter into a funding agreement with the AFC and provide a written report upon completion of the fellowship.