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In 2023, Screen Queensland became the first state screen agency to establish a dedicated department to uplift Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices and stories in the sector. Led by the dynamic Danielle Ah Boo who reports directly to the Screen Queensland CEO, along with new team member Jayden Swain as Senior Coordinator, the unit reflects the agency’s deep commitment and responsibility for elevating and accelerating opportunities for First Nations storytelling right across its operations.

This NAIDOC Week, we’re sharing a peek behind the curtain at the people and vision behind Screen Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Unit.

What is your vision for this new unit?

Screen Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Unit’s purpose is to enhance Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent both in front of and behind the camera, invest in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories, and ensure authenticity in the way we work with, and for, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. This commitment not only promotes cultural integrity and representation but also fosters a richer and more diverse screen industry. By prioritising the voices and perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the unit plays a pivotal role in ensuring their stories are told with accuracy, respect and depth. 

Why is it important that Screen Queensland has a dedicated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Unit?

Having an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Unit at Screen Queensland is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it drives cultural change by highlighting and celebrating the unique stories and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This in turn promotes greater understanding and appreciation within the broader community. Secondly, the unit addresses the historic underrepresentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within the screen industry by advocating for and providing dedicated support and resources, thereby bridging the gap and creating more opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creatives. Importantly we have a direct voice into Screen Queensland’s leadership team and board. Lastly, the unit ensures that First Nations creatives have the necessary platforms to succeed, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse industry that reflects the true fabric of Australian society. 

What are you working on at the moment?

We’re currently busy with several things on the move, however some of our key projects include: 

• Our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP): We are actively working on developing and implementing our RAP, which outlines our commitment to reconciliation and sets our practical actions to build strong relationships and create opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This plan is a cornerstone of our efforts to foster mutual respects and collaboration. 
• First Nations Strategy: We are developing a comprehensive strategy to guide our efforts in supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories and storytellers. This strategy aims to ensure that our initiatives are aligned with the needs and aspirations of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, as well as the evolving trends of the screen industry. 
• Talent development programs: We are working on several talent development initiatives. These programs are designed to identify and nurture emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent in the screen industry. Through targeted initiatives such as mentorships, workshops and production opportunities, we aim to equip these creatives with the skills, knowledge and networks they need to thrive in their career. 

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At Screen Queensland, we recognise the vital role screen storytelling plays in the 2024 NAIDOC Week theme of ‘Keep the Fire Burning: Blak, Loud and Proud’ and we are focused on elevating and accelerating opportunities for First Nations practitioners right across our operations through our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Unit.