2009 AFI Awards open for business

Awards are everywhere and it barely seems like we have finished last year’s AFIs when the cycle starts once more.

The Australian Film Institute is currently seeking jurors to take part in its judging for the 2009 AFI Awards.

Jurors must be AFI members professional film or television credits. They are required for the Feature Film, Documentary, Television, Visual Effects, Short Fiction Film and Short Animation juries.

Each  jury is created with representatives across all industry crafts.

“We encourage all industry professionals that are passionate about Australian film and television to participate in the 2009 AFI Awards, and in doing so, support aims sustained now for over half a century, of recognising and rewarding excellence in achievement within our screen industry,” said AFI CEO, Damian Trewhella.

At the ASTRA Awards this week there was a rare declaration of jury names as a positive sign of transparency. Each ASTRA jury comprised about 8 names of production, channel and media names. While some might argue it may affect independence, it would be good to see this adopted by other industry juries.

Expressions of interest and a current CV, or details of  professional Screen Guild accreditation should be emailed to the AFI Awards Manager, Helene Carter at [email protected] by 5pm, Friday May 8.

More info can be found at:  www.afi.org.au/jury

The AFI has also opened for entries for this year’s awards.