The ABC has announced the New Wave program to support Australian comedy podcast talent and discover the country’s next great comedy podcasts.
Applications open today for emerging and mid-career comedy podcasters to submit their bold new podcast ideas to the ABC. New Wave is a commitment to nurture the next generation of comedy podcasters; those that are already in podcasting and those comedians exploring podcasting as a means to reach new audiences. We’re looking for fresh, laugh out loud podcasts that will appeal to an under 40s audience. Writers, directors, creators and podcasters are encouraged to apply to the New Wave program, which includes a funded development period and paid attendance to a series of workshops in Sydney taking place from 14 to 17 July.
“A sense of fun and irreverence is part and parcel of being Australian. Our comedians and content creators are world class and we’re hopeful that this opportunity opens up podcasting as a way to spread more laughter,” says Jessica Radburn, ABC Head of Audio On Demand.
From the pool of applicants, 4 successful teams will be selected to attend 4 days of paid workshops in Sydney, with informative and practical sessions designed to boost participants’ podcasting skills. The teams will then enter a funded development period to produce development materials for their podcast. During this period, teams will have access to the ABC’s best-in-class production resources as well as support and training. At the end of the development period, teams will have the opportunity to pitch their podcast to ABC commissioners for series funding.
Applications for the New Wave program are now open and submissions can be made HERE.
Applications close on Sunday 25 May with successful teams announced on Monday 16 June. The ABC encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including Indigenous Australians, people with disabilities, and LGBTIQA+ individuals.