Lesley Coleman

‘There are so many stories that we haven’t heard and it is in those stories that we find the truth’. Grace Tame, Australian of the Year 2021, Q&A, ABC TV. Ms Tame is an advocate for the rights of sexually abused children, but this quote is equally relevant in the adult family violence sphere.

Mystical Dog Productions decided to make the short film Home Truths (20 mins) to bring some of those stories to a wider audience; to shine a light on the universal nature of family violence. And most importantly, to help survivors of family violence and those who are still in violent relationships.

The script is based on interviews with individuals who have experienced family violence and workshops with senior staff of Family Life Pty Ltd, a local Melbourne service agency that delivers family violence services on behalf of the Federal and State Governments. Advice has also been obtained from noted Melbourne psychologist Meredith Fuller, who brings substantial relevant experience.

Proposed distribution

1. The film will be a training/education aid for community organisations working to enhance awareness of family violence and assist survivors to heal.  
2. It will be available to associated professionals such as police, court staff, primary health care professionals, mental health practitioners, local government, corporations and professional associations.
3. Individuals wishing to educate themselves or obtain advice/assistance in navigating family violence situations
4. We propose to distribute the film through appropriate film festivals in Australia and internationally.

Audience

1. Multicultural, LGBTIQ+, cisgender, gender diverse, youth and older women and men and people with disabilities experiencing or survivors of family violence 
2. People interested in enhancing their knowledge of the issue
3. Practitioners in the field
4. Diverse communities represented in the film and other communities from diverse backgrounds wanting to enhance understanding and discussion of the issue
5. Community and government organisations wishing to educate clients or others about family violence and how to survive and thrive
6. Professionals and students undergoing training in family violence issues
7. General audiences at film festivals

All costings for the short film are based on relevant MEAA rates.

Total short film project cost is $25,311 of which we seek funding of $20,350 * (ex 

GST) is based on MEAA minimum rates. (In Kind not included).  Accessibility (closed 

captions in English and other community languages) costs are not included, but it is our hope that sufficient funds will become avaialble to allow some additional language options..

This cost is made up of the following elements: -

• Level 1 $4,000 will cover out of pocket expenses including equipment and basic rental fees.
• Level 2 $9,965 will cover post production costs and some Marketing costs including entry to Film Festivals.
• Level 3 $10,385 will allow cast, crew and post production staff to be paid at Equity rates, a group that has done poorly under COVID. 

Total          $20,350