The South Australian Film Corporation (SAFC) announced today its first screen agency partnership with the Australian arm of Audible.

The Amazon-owned company produces and sells audio entertainment spanning audiobooks, radio and TV programs, and verbal versions of magazines and newspapers.

The joint initiative – titled the Audio Drama and Audio Documentary Development Initiative – will have storytellers produce applications for an entertaining audio drama or audio documentary from three to six hours in length with international allure.

Up to three projects will receive a share of development funding and one, following a presentation, will be selected for commission by the companies.

SAFC head of production, development, attraction and studios Amanda Duthie said the initiative is an exciting step forward for South Australian entertainers.

“As we continue to explore and develop new frontiers of storytelling, SAFC has pioneered a partnership with one of the most innovative players in the audio market to bring new opportunities to South Australian creatives,” she said.

“I can’t wait to see the diversity of applications that emerge once we remove the parameters of screen.”

Audible Australia director of original content Ben Naparstek said the platform is excited to accommodate a sliver of the world’s growing appetite for diverse audio content through this partnership.

“Australians are a nation of audio lovers, and we have a keen interest in locally produced audio that captures local stories in the Australian voice,” said Naparstek.

“Audible is proud to be a destination for creative ideas, and we’re thrilled to join forces with SAFC to create unique and innovative Australian stories that elevate the listening experience.”

Applications close on October 14 and can be submitted by the SAFC online grant webpage.