Screenworks, the national industry body supporting screen practitioners across regional Australia, has appointed Lisa Rose as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Rose, who spent eight years as Festival Director at Queer Screen, will step into the role on July 1st, 2026.
Best known for steering the Queer Screen Mardi Gras Film Festival through a period of significant growth, Rose oversaw the festival’s strategic and operational direction, expanded its industry development programming, and built relationships across government, funding bodies and cultural institutions. She also held the position of Co-chair of Queer Screen’s Board prior to taking the Festival Director role in 2017.
Screenworks Chair Tracey Mair said the appointment reflected exactly what the organisation was looking for. “Lisa brings exactly the combination of organisational rigour and genuine passion for the screen industry that aligns with Screenworks’ vision,” Mair said.
“Her experience building programs, partnerships and pathways for screen practitioners makes her exceptionally well placed to lead the organisation as Screenworks continues to strengthen the fabric of regional Australia’s screen industry.”
Rose, who grew up in Tasmania, said she has long admired Screenworks’ impact – particularly its focus on practitioners outside major metropolitan centres. “I understand how important access to opportunities, networks and professional development can be for people living outside major metropolitan centres,” she said.
“I’m excited to join the organisation at such a pivotal time and to work with the Board, team and industry to support screen practitioners wherever they choose to live and work.”
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Rose takes the reins as Screenworks heads toward its flagship Regional to Global Screen Forum, set for 9–10 September in Lennox Head, NSW — the largest gathering of its kind for regional screen professionals in Australia.
Established in 2000, Screenworks has supported regional screen creatives and crew for 25 years through career development, skills training and networking programs, working to build a diverse pipeline of regional film and television talent across every state and territory.