Hard data in the toughest market shows value of diversity

Statistics bear out the value of sentiment as the emotive power of diversity for the sector turns out to match the preferences of audiences.

Diversity is now a keyword in the evolution of the Australian screen sector. Screenhub follows the issue closely, agencies ask for data and set targets, and the word even occurs in promo material.

It is our job to wonder if this is just a fad, driven by a very un-diverse group of technocrats with managerial power. 

There are a lot of issues in the one diversity bag. Sexual diversity is savagely opposed in many parts of the world, ableism is barely recognised, and most English language screen industries are terrible at class. 

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David Tiley was the Editor of Screenhub from 2005 until he became Content Lead for Film in 2021 with a special interest in policy. He is a writer in screen media with a long career in educational programs, documentary, and government funding, with a side order in script editing. He values curiosity, humour and objectivity in support of Australian visions and the art of storytelling.