Free film courses for blockbuster careers

17 September 2025
Two digital media students preparing to film someone in a studio.
Students in a CQU film studio

By Tiahna Fiddling

Queenslanders eager to break into the screen industry can now access a series of free short courses in film and television production, offering a valuable first step towards an entry-level role in this fast-growing sector.

The Queensland Government's Department of Trade, Employment and Training has funded the development of six new micro-credentials to help address a significant skills and labour shortage in the state’s screen production industry.

CQUniversity, in partnership with Screen Queensland and Harvest Pictures Group, will provide the free micro-credentials online and on campus from October 2025.

The project is being coordinated by CQU’s Head of Course for Digital Media, Associate Professor Steven Pace. 

“Queensland is home to a thriving screen industry that produces films and television series from both local and international producers, including major Hollywood productions like Godzilla x Kong and Netflix dramas,” Assoc Prof Pace said. 

“The state offers a variety of backdrops, world-class studios, skilled crews, and competitive government incentives through Screen Queensland, making it a prime location for screen production.

“This is a great opportunity for Queenslanders aged fifteen years and older to gain some foundation skills in film and television production at no cost.”

He explained that there will be three pairs of micro-credentials on offer, each designed to introduce participants to different entry-level roles on set.

“The first pair of micro-credentials will teach key on-set protocols for working as a member of a film crew. The second pair will focus on the role of costume assistant, and the third pair will focus on the role of data wrangler,” Assoc Prof Pace said.

“Each pair of micro-credentials will include a three-hour online course that teaches foundation skills followed by a one-day in-person workshop where participants can apply what they have learned in a studio environment on a CQU campus. 

“Anyone who successfully completes the free online course will be eligible to apply for the free studio-based workshop, but workshop places will be limited.”

On completion of each micro-credential, participants will receive a CQUniversity digital badge—a verified credential suitable for sharing on their CV, portfolio, or social media profile.

Anyone interested in learning more about the free screen industry micro-credentials is encouraged to register on the CQU digital media webpage