by FilmInk Staff
For the first time in the organisation’s history, Women in Film and Television Australia (WIFT Australia) has achieved full national representation with elected board members from every state and territory now serving.
Dale Thain (ACT), Helena Brooks (NSW), Bobbi-Lea Dionysius (QLD) and Ursula Woods (Tasmania) were elected to the board in March 2025 joining Manda Flett (SA), Maya Kavanagh (WA), Sarah Price (NT), and Sue Marriott (VIC) as well as special board advisers Amanda Browne and Dianna La Grassa.
Annisa Belonogoff and Yolanda Peart-Smith were also elected to the board as co-representatives for Queensland and Tasmania respectively, whilst Jatika Maheshwary has been appointed as WIFT’s new Treasurer and Jacinta Legge-Wilkinson as Secretary.
The changes mark the first time the WIFT board has representation from all states and territories, ensuring that the voices of women and gender-diverse people in film, television, and screen media are heard and advocated for across every corner of Australia.
WIFT Australia also announced Liz Tomkins’ tenure as Chair of the Board has ended after three impactful years.
Under Liz’s leadership, WIFT Australia has adopted a more international focus and grown its reach in the Australian screen industry, positively impacting its ability to empower, advocate for, and support women and gender diverse individuals in the sector.
Transformative initiatives such as the ElevateUs mentorship program; established pivotal industry partnerships including with U.S-based social network and educational site Stage32; annual collaborations with SXSW Sydney and AACTA; and major national initiatives such as the Reframe Stamp program were all launched under her tenure.
Liz’s advocacy for increased representation and her dedication to grassroots growth through state and regional chapter expansion has greatly enhanced WIFT Australia’s role as a driving force for change within the industry.
“It has been a great honour to serve as Chair of WIFT Australia. Over the past 3 years I’ve witnessed the growing strength and power of our national community, and I’m immensely proud of what we’ve achieved together to build the foundations for a bright future. I remain a passionate champion of our mission and excited for the future of WIFT under the guidance of our bold and innovative new board,” said Liz.
“Liz’s tireless work, generosity, and visionary leadership have left an enduring legacy that will guide us forward,” said the WIFT Australia Board of Directors. “We are deeply grateful for her contributions and commitment, and we warmly welcome our new board members who will build upon her outstanding achievements.”
A national search is currently underway for a new Chair to succeed Liz Tomkins and guide WIFT Australia through its next exciting chapter.
About WIFT Australia
WIFT Australia is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to achieving gender equality and fostering diversity in the Australian screen industry. Through targeted programs, initiatives, and events, WIFT Australia supports women and gender-diverse individuals at every stage of their careers, promoting a more inclusive and representative media landscape.
