Brisbane production companies join forces to Shoot for Diversity

(Back row L-R: Tanya Spencer, Mark Bishop, Katherine Cooke, Noelle Jones and Victoria Conners)
(Front row L-R: Josh Zaini, Miles Murphy, Sara Taghaode, Matthew Bamkin and Angela Murphy)

Creating more diversity in the production sector has been talked about for years. Now, a new initiative by a collective of Brisbane-based production companies is putting words into action.

Behind Shoot for Diversity are leading production companies – The Producers, Eric Tom & Bruce, Taxi Film Production, Compadre Pictures Co., Two Little Films, Kiosk, HAPPY, Light + Shade and Cartel Film Production. The collective has agreed to promote diversity on film sets through a series of commitments to provide crew experience for members of minorities.

Says Katherine Cooke, Compadre Picture Co.: “Shoot for Diversity aims to create opportunities for those from diverse cultural and gender backgrounds including First Nations peoples and members of the LGBTiQA+ community.”

Says Andrew Wareham from Taxi Film Production: “Starting out is always the hardest part and many of us are lucky enough to have been given an opportunity to succeed. Supporting others to do the same, especially those from diverse backgrounds, will just help make a stronger and more inclusive industry.”

Adds Noelle Jones from The Producers: “We’re looking at practical measures such as allowing inexperienced but potential crew members to be part of productions in a paid crew role. This initial on-set experience will build skills and lead to a more diverse crew of the future.”

While Brisbane based at this stage, the collective have plans to take the initiative into other States. For any production companies interested in Shoot for Diversity, please contact Noelle Jones at noelle@theproducers.co