Screen Producers Australia Council appoints Chair

Former Chief Minister of the ACT, Kate Carnell (pictured, centre) has been appointed by Screen Producers Australia as the inaugural Chair of the SPA Council.

She has previously participated in SPA’s Screen Export Council and worked as the inaugural Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman.

“I am honoured to accept this role and to continue supporting Australia’s screen producers, who are at the heart of Australian cultural and economic storytelling. The screen industry comprises many innovative and hard-working small businesses, and I am committed to ensuring they have the tools, resources, and advocacy they need to succeed—both here and on the global stage,” she said.

“Kate’s unparalleled experience in championing SMEs and deep connection to the screen sector make her the ideal choice as our inaugural Chair. At a time when our industry faces significant challenges—particularly around our industry getting a fair go in the new online streaming era, Kate’s leadership will be critical to ensuring the voices of our members are heard, and Australian stories continue to thrive,” said SPA Council President Tracey Vieira (pictured right).

“As a former Chief Minister of the ACT, former CEO of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Food and Grocery Council and current Chair of the Australian Made Campaign, Kate has consistently demonstrated her commitment to supporting the economic development of key Australian industries and the role of small businesses within them,” said SPA CEO Matthew Deaner (pictured left).

“Kate’s appointment is the first of its kind at SPA. She understands the challenge of running small businesses, the power of collective advocacy and the need for Australian-made products and services – which our members deliver. I look forward to working with Kate in her role and working to amplify SPA’s voice in public forums.”