September 19, 2025 – Ausfilm is pleased to announce the appointment of two Board members. Dale Roberts, CEO at KOJO was elected, having previously served on the Board, and Nerissa Kavanagh, Managing Director at Studio Blackbird was re-elected. Each will serve a three-year term, effective immediately.
Samantha Martin-Williams, Chair of the Ausfilm Board, said: “I am delighted to see Nerissa re-elected and to welcome Dale back into the fold. Both bring a great deal of sector experience and provide a wealth of insight which will be invaluable to the Board and membership.
The unique composition of Ausfilm’s Board, with Government and business working together to support members and the broader industry plays an integral role advocating for the Australian screen ecosystem.”
Dale remarked, “I am delighted to re-join the Ausfilm Board. I’m passionate about our industry and ensuring a thriving private sector as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. I’m especially committed to representing post-production and VFX studios and being a voice for the strategies and policies that set us up for success.”
Nerissa said, “I’m honoured to be re-elected to the Ausfilm Board and grateful for the continued support from the membership. I’m proud to represent our diverse and talented members at the Board level and look forward to contributing to the ongoing success of Ausfilm.”
Ausfilm would also like to extend its warmest thanks to outgoing Board Member, Jennie Zeiher (previously Rising Sun Pictures) for her incredible contribution since 2022. She made such a positive impact on Ausfilm, the membership and the screen sector at large.
Ausfilm’s Board includes:
Samantha Martin-Williams, Chair
Emma Drummond, Deputy Chair – VP, Studio Legal, Netflix Animation Studios
Nerissa Kavanagh – Managing Director, Studio Blackbird
Yasmine Lintmeijer – Head of Disney Studios Australia
Dale Roberts – CEO, KOJO
Lynne Benzie – President, Village Roadshow Studios
Deirdre Brennan – CEO, Screen Australia
Kyas Hepworth – Head of Screen NSW
Jacqui Feeney – CEO, Screen Queensland
Rikki Lea Bestall – CEO, Screenwest
Caroline Pitcher – CEO, VicScreen