Screen Australia has appointed acclaimed filmmaker Rachel Perkins as director of First Nations strategy, a newly created leadership role within the agency.
Perkins, a proud Arrernte and Kalkadoon woman with German and Irish heritage, will commence in the position on 2 March 2026 and report directly to Screen Australia CEO Deirdre Brennan.
In the newly created role, Perkins will lead the strategic direction of Screen Australia’s First Nations Department and help shape recommendations for future policy, investment priorities and sector engagement with government, cultural organisations and screen industry stakeholders.
Her past experiences
Perkins is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most influential screen practitioners, with more than 30 years advocating for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander self-representation and equity in the industry.
Rachel Perkins Image: Screen Australia
An agenda-setting filmmaker and policy leader, she has held senior roles across Screen Australia, AFTRS, SBS, ABC, the Australian Film Commission, NITV, Indigenous Screen Australia, the NSW Film and Television Office, the National Indigenous Media Association of Australia and the First Nations Heritage Protection Alliance.
As co-founder of Blackfella Films, Perkins has been instrumental in shaping First Nations storytelling, with a focus on projects created by and with Indigenous media practitioners.
Her directing, writing and producing credits include Mystery Road, Total Control, The Australian Wars, Redfern Now, Bran Nue Dae, Radiance, Mabo and First Australians.
Perkins comments
Perkins said the position offered an opportunity to strengthen representation and long-term industry growth.
“Screen Australia has such an important role in our nation’s cultural ecosystem, so I’m proud to play my part in ensuring all Australians continue to see themselves represented on screen. In particular, I’m passionate about the opportunity to provide the strategic support for First Nations creators and businesses to be empowered, own their stories and thrive.”
“The First Nations Department has a long legacy of incredible work. I’m keen to continue championing our exceptional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander screen practitioners and forge a path for the next generation of talent – delivering the kind of stories that will enrich and uplift the entirety of Australia’s innovative screen industry and audiences across the globe.”
Screen Australia CEO comments
Deirdre Brennan
Screen Australia CEO Brennan described the appointment as a significant step for the agency.
“Rachel’s appointment marks a bold new chapter, not just for Screen Australia’s First Nations Department, but for the future of local storytelling as a whole.”
“We created this new role because First Nations stories and contribution to our industry are more important than ever. Rachel’s deep experience across content, education, culture, advocacy and complex organisations makes her uniquely positioned to shape an exciting future for Screen Australia. No doubt she’ll continue to strengthen a vibrant screen industry that reflects the depth and diversity of Australian stories.”
Perkins will also work closely with Head of First Nations Content Gillian Moody-Ardler, who oversees creative and operational direction for First Nations content investment.
Top Image: Rachel Perkins