An industry survey is seeking input to uncover the true state of the employment of people with disabilities in the screen industry.
The University of Melbourne has launched a survey designed to change the attitudes and hiring practices.
The survey is part of a major project by production company A2K Media headed up by producer Ade Djajamihardja (pictured, seated), who had a successful media career until he suffered a massive stroke in 2011. He struggled to rejoin to the industry and now wants to make it easier for those in a similar position.
A2K Co-Founder, Producer and Founder Ade Djajamihardja says, “I think we all know intuitively that Disabled people are the most underrepresented group in the screen industry, however having substantive data quantifies and strengthens a case for progressive change and motivates members of the screen industry to action towards equity and inclusion for Disabled people in this industry.”
The project will ultimately deliver a state of the art, online education platform aimed at those who have the power and ability to hire, while informing and educating about the issues which have prevented them from doing so. It will be built by leading e-learning specialists, savv-e.com.au/
“I don’t believe that anyone in our industry means to be ableist. No one sets out to actively exclude or offend 20% of the population. But it happens all the time. I have seen first-hand that even progressive, well-meaning organisations can get it wrong,” says Djajamihardja.
“We would like to hear from Disabled and Non-Disabled people working in the Australian screen industry in any capacity.”
“Your views are important and will help us to get a clearer idea of what the current status is and what is required to work towards equity and inclusion.”
The survey has support from Screen Australia Enterprise Business & Ideas and Film Victoria plus Screen NSW, Screen Queensland, South Australian Film Corporation and Screen West. Independence Australia, The University of Melbourne, through the Melbourne Disability Institute and AFTRS.
You can participate here until 21 March.