16 June, 2025 – 25 years ago, a group of regional filmmakers had a vision – they set out to open a regional branch of the Australian Screen Directors’ Association and went on to establish an organisation that would make a difference to the careers of regional filmmakers and birth thousands of projects.
From its early roots of supporting a small community of committed regional filmmakers, Screenworks now engages screen practitioners and creatives Australia-wide.
CEO of Screenworks, Lisa O’Meara, had the following comments about Screenworks’ contribution to the Australian screen industry.
“Our industry exists because of people’s need to tell stories and to see stories told. It is the richness and diversity of the storytellers that generate engaging, authentic screenplays and draws audiences to our screens. Without the contribution of regional Australians, our stories would be less rich, which is one of the reasons Screenworks has continued to be critical and relevant for the Australian screen industry. It is very satisfying to see people who Screenworks have supported over the past 25 years advance in their careers and bring their work to fruition.”
Every year since 2017, Screenworks has been bringing a group of industry professionals who are making an impact on the screen industry to the Northern Rivers to engage with the regional filmmaking community. This year Regional to Global will feature one of its strongest programs yet in celebration of Screenworks’ 25th year.
“It’s an exciting time in the film and television industry with technological advancements and changing viewing habits creating opportunities and forcing producers and creatives to be innovative. I’m looking forward to bringing together a range of creatives and key industry decision makers who will talk about how they are bringing stories to our screens in this current climate and the opportunities they can see unfolding.”
There are so many panels, workshops and networking opportunities taking place across the three day event (18-20 June in Lennox Head). Highlights include an exploration into how to work outside traditional models, and how to ‘greenlight’ yourself, to a series of Meet the Creators panels providing case studies on some of Australia’s most exciting films and programs, this year’s Regional to Global explores a wide range of topics.
As technology advances, many creatives are wondering how AI will impact their careers. Representatives from ADG, AWG and SPA will come together for a panel discussion exploring the impacts of AI in their fields, and Kirsty Stark from Crew HQ will run a session on how to make AI work for you.
Netflix Opening Night Celebration on 18 June will also be an opportunity for the screen community to come together and raise a glass to Screenworks’ 25 years of regional filmmaking support.
Lisa O’Meara added that seeing some of the most respected decision makers and creatives gather in Lennox Head for the three-day event is a testament to the impressive reputation Screenworks has built over the years.
“We’ve engaged with some of the most prolific production companies in the country including See-Saw Films, Matchbox Pictures, and FremantleMedia to name a few. We’re also proud to have been supported by various Australian screen agencies throughout our 25 years, as well as Netflix who we have partnered with for the Regional Crew Pathways Program.
“These collaborations and partnerships demonstrate the screen industry’s confidence in Screenworks and its commitment to develop regional filmmakers and highlight our stunning regions as top filming locations.”
To hear about some of the Screenworks alumni success stories, visit our Alumni Page.
For media enquiries, please reach out Communications Coordinator at Screenworks, Vicki Heath: [email protected]
