SBS Head of Commissioning John Godfrey will leave the broadcaster in mid-July after 18 years, closing a tenure that shaped some of the network’s most culturally significant programming.
Godfrey has held the Head of Commissioning role since 2022, having worked across a range of senior leadership positions at SBS since joining the organisation.
During that time, he was instrumental in bringing landmark series to screen, including Go Back to Where You Came From, Once Upon a Time in Cabramatta, Filthy Rich and Homeless, First Contact, Struggle Street, and The Australian Wars.
He also oversaw enduring formats and returning series such as Mastermind Australia, The Cook Up with Adam Liaw, Who Do You Think You Are?, Eurovision, and, more recently, Alone Australia.
Inclusion and industry mentorship
Beyond the commissioning slate, Godfrey championed underrepresented voices both on and off screen. He led the implementation of SBS’s Commissioning Inclusion Guidelines, which the broadcaster credits with strengthening its position as an industry leader in inclusive storytelling.
He was also recognised internally for mentoring emerging screen practitioners across the sector.
SBS Managing Director Jane Palfreyman said Godfrey’s impact extended well beyond the titles he greenlit. “John’s legacy extends far beyond the groundbreaking series like Go Back to Where You Came From that he commissioned for this network.
“It is reflected in the profound impact these programs have had on Australia’s national conversations – shaping our understanding of identity, culture and community,” she said.
“Through landmark productions such as Filthy Rich and Homeless, First Contact and The Australian Wars, John championed storytelling that challenged assumptions, broadened perspectives and encouraged meaningful engagement with our nation’s history, public policy and contemporary social issues. We thank him for his vision and leadership and wish him every success as he embarks on this next chapter.”
Jane Palfreyman
SBS Director of Television Kathryn Fink also paid tribute. “SBS’s standing as a broadcaster renowned for bold ideas, fearless documentary-making and distinctive drama is due in no small part to John’s commissioning acumen and creative ambition,” she said.
“John’s passion for ensuring the diversity of Australia is reflected not just in the stories we tell at SBS, but in who tells them, has underpinned our position as a leader in inclusion in the sector. His legacy can be seen not only in the strength of SBS today, but in the broader impact he has had on the Australian screen sector.”
Godfrey said he was proud of the work the network had produced. “After 18 incredible years at SBS, now is the right time for me to step away. I have been fortunate to work alongside so many passionate colleagues, talented creators and production partners who share a belief in backing bold ideas, pushing boundaries and using the power of storytelling to open minds and hearts,” he said.
He departed with particular acknowledgment of the storytellers the network had worked with, noting it had been “a privilege to play a small part in sharing those stories with Australians.”
No replacement has been announced.