The Albanese Labor Government has announced the appointment of Rachel Perkins as Chair of the Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS) Council for a three-year term. This marks a significant milestone in the School's 50-year history as Perkins is the first former graduate to chair the AFTRS Council.

Perkins, an award-winning writer, director, and producer, is a woman of the Arrernte and Kalkadoon nations. She has a 30-year career in film and media and is the founder of Blackfella Films, one of Australia's leading production companies. Blackfella Films' recent documentary series 'The Australian Wars' won Most Outstanding Factual or Documentary Program at the 2023 TV Week Logie Awards, and Best Documentary or Factual Program and Best Direction in Nonfiction Television at the 2024 AACTA awards.

Perkins has previously worked with the Australian Film Commission (now Screen Australia), NITV, and the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Foundation. She is a graduate of AFTRS and served as a Member on the AFTRS Council from 1998 to 2003.

Tony Burke, Minister for the Arts, recognised Perkins' firsthand knowledge of the School's impact and value to Australia's cultural history.

"Rachel is one of Australia's leading storytellers, particularly when it comes to First Nations stories. As graduate herself, Rachel knows the importance of AFTRS and the difference it makes," he said.

The Government said Perkins' appointment recognises her significant contributions to the Australian film and television industry and her unique perspective as a former AFTRS graduate. It is expected her leadership will continue to drive the School's mission of finding and nurturing Australian talent, with a particular focus on First Nations storytelling.

The Minister for the Arts also expressed his gratitude to the previous Chair, Russell Howcroft, and Debra Richards for their service to the AFTRS Council.