By Travis Johnson

The formation of Women in Film & Television Australia (WIFT Australia) was announced yesterday, marking the alliance of a number of industry advocacy bodies, including WIFT NSW, WIFT VIC, and WIFT WA, plus new branches in other states, into one nationally coordinated organisation.

WIFT Australia’s key goal is the achievement of gender parity in the Australian screen industry.

“WIFT NSW is thrilled to be joining forces with our formidable sister organisations” said WIFT NSW President Megan Riakos. “With an international awareness of gender inequality and lack of diversity in screen representation at an all time high, the time is ripe for us to nationalise.”

“It’s become clear that national issues require national solutions,” says WIFT Northern Territory representative Bridget May. “Long-lasting change becomes more possible when working together strategically and amplifying each other’s work.”

WIFT WA representative Alexandra Nell, added “We appreciate and acknowledge the long history of advocacy for women in the screen industry and our work builds on these solid foundations. WIFT Australia will allow us to streamline our efforts and reach more women across Australia than ever.”

Briony Kidd of  WIFT Tasmania chapter agrees. “Women filmmakers in the smaller states and territories are excited to be welcomed in to this growing and dynamic movement. Working in rural and regional locations, we face additional barriers and specific challenges that we are keen to discuss with our national network.”

The official launch of WIFT Australia will be hosted by the Gold Coast Film Festival on April 20 through their #femalefilmmakerfriday program, with general WIFT Australia membership available thereafter.

Find out more about WIFT Australia via their website or get in touch with your local chapter.

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