Screen Producers Australia (SPA) has announced that Chief Executive Officer Matthew Deaner will step down from his role following 14 years of dedicated service and an outstanding contribution to Australia’s screen production industry.
During his tenure, Matt has been an exceptional leader, a passionate advocate for Australian screen producers and a tireless champion for the industry, representing its interests at both a national and international level.
His leadership has been instrumental in strengthening SPA’s position as the peak representative body for screen producers, expanding its engagement with government and key industry stakeholders, enhancing member services and elevating the profile of Australian screen production.
Throughout his 14 years at the helm, Matt has consistently demonstrated a level of commitment and energy that has gone above and beyond the expectations of his role. His willingness to go the extra mile, his persistence in advocating for producers and his determination to achieve meaningful outcomes for the industry have made a lasting difference.
Among his significant achievements has been SPA’s continued advocacy for local content obligations on global streaming platforms, helping secure landmark policy reform to support the commissioning and production of Australian stories for Australian audiences. His work has also contributed to important funding and policy outcomes, including additional resources for the ABC, an increase in the television production offset to 30 per cent while protecting the film offset at 40 per cent, and greater industry alignment through the Make It Australian campaign.
Under Matt’s leadership, SPA also relaunched and expanded SCREEN FOREVER, Australia’s largest screen conference and market, while developing initiatives such as Ones to Watch to support emerging industry talent.
SPA Council President Tracey Vieira acknowledged Matt’s exceptional contribution and the legacy he leaves behind.
“Matt has been an exceptional leader for SPA and a tireless champion for Australian screen producers. His commitment, energy and strategic vision have helped strengthen the Association and advance the interests of producers across the country.
“His leadership and persistence in advocating for local content obligations on streaming services will leave a lasting legacy for Australian producers and the broader screen industry. At a time of profound change, he has helped ensure Australian stories remain firmly on the national agenda.
“On behalf of the Council, our members and the broader industry, we thank Matt for his outstanding service and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career.”
Matt said it had been an enormous privilege to lead SPA and work alongside the Australian screen production community.
“I am proud of what we have achieved together and grateful for the support of the members, staff and industry partners throughout my time with the Association.
“After 14 years of what’s been both a very rewarding and equally intense role, it’s time for the next iteration of our organisation and for me to pursue other opportunities.”
As Matt prepares to step down, his departure marks the end of a significant chapter for SPA. His exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment and remarkable energy have helped shape the organisation and strengthen its voice on behalf of Australian screen producers.
Whoever takes on the role next will undoubtedly have big shoes to fill, inheriting an organisation that has been strengthened by Matt’s vision, dedication and willingness to go above and beyond for the industry he has served so passionately.
SPA Council has confirmed that Zoe Angus will serve as Acting Executive Director, providing continuity and stability while arrangements for the organisation’s next chapter are progressed.
