Former SBS scriptwriting director Julie Eckersley has joined Screen Queensland in a new role as executive director of screen content.
Eckersley left the public broadcaster last year after her contract ended.
During her tenure, she commissioned the dramas Safe Home, Men Away, Erotic Stories, Swift Street, and Four Years Later, while overseeing commissions from the Digital Originals Initiative.
Before joining SBS in 2021, she held roles across various elements of production, including almost a decade at Matchbox Pictures.
Mr Eckersley, who was named Commissioner of the Year at the 2023 Australian Film Producers Awards, said he was excited to return to his home state and help develop Queensland’s talent.
“This is an incredibly exciting time for Queensland as we take a step towards the world stage with the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, and I’m really looking forward to working with some of our amazing local creators as we build and grow our industry for the new media era.
“I’m passionate about supporting storytellers to build thriving and sustainable businesses, tell authentic Queensland stories across all platforms, and connect with audiences around the world. From the Gold Coast to Cairns, the Queensland screen industry has much to be proud of and I’m honored to be part of an institution that is building a future-ready screen sector.”
This appointment follows the end of Dr Belinda Burns’ tenure as Chief Creative Officer.
The agency said the newly created executive director role for screen content and industry and audience development reflected Screen Queensland’s “strategic focus on delivering measurable results and building capacity, content and career paths for the state’s creative industries to 2032 and beyond”.
Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney said: “Julie is an extraordinary creator with valuable multi-platform experience matched by a deep understanding of the evolution of our industry, global trends and the realities of innovation across screen and games.”
“Her understanding of both the creative and commercial aspects of storytelling makes her ideal to lead our creative strategy. Julie’s proven ability to identify unique voices and develop bold, authentic stories aligns perfectly with our mission to bring Queensland-made content to screens around the world.”
Mr Eckersley will begin his role at Screen Queensland on November 3 following an executive search supported by EP Australia.
