Unlocking the Power of the Australian Film, Television and Radio School: Your 60-Second Guide to a Creative Government Career 🎬
Ever wondered what it’s really like to work at the Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS)? We’ve dissected their annual report so you don’t have to! In this quick-fire overview, you’ll discover everything you need to know about this vibrant government entity—from its key functions and financials to the talents and skills it seeks in new recruits. Whether you’re a seasoned public servant exploring your creative side or a fresh graduate dreaming of a career in film, TV, or radio, this guide will help you chart your path to success at AFTRS. Let’s dive in!
AT-A-GLANCE 🚀
Name of Department / Council: Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS)
Location: Moore Park, Sydney, NSW (serving Australia-wide)
CEO: Dr. Nell Greenwood
Total Revenue: Approximately $30 million
Total Number of Employees: Around 150
(Note: These figures align with the AFTRS Annual Report data at the time of publication.)
THE QUALIFICATION, CERTIFICATIONS, TRADES, PROFESSIONS & WORK EXPERIENCES MOST SUITED TO
Top 5 academic qualifications most suited:
Bachelor of Film/Television/Radio – Offers foundational knowledge in media production, critical for AFTRS’s core mission.
Bachelor of Arts (Communication/Media Studies) – Equips graduates with strong communication skills for stakeholder relations.
Diploma in Screen and Media – Provides hands-on technical expertise (e.g., editing, camera operation).
Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Helps with strategic leadership and operational management.
Master of Public Policy or Government – Enhances policy and governance skills, vital in a government-funded institution.
Top 5 certifications most suited:
Certificate IV in Screen and Media – Develops core digital media and production skills.
Certified Project Manager (e.g., PRINCE2®, PMBOK) – Ensures efficient coordination of creative projects.
Certificate in Editing and Post-Production – Sharpens technical capabilities in video/audio editing.
Certified Human Resources Professional (HR) – Addresses recruitment, talent management, and staff well-being.
Certificate in Financial Management – Critical for budgeting and grants administration in a government setting.
Top 5 trades / professions most suited:
Audio Engineer – Manages sound equipment for radio and film projects.
Electrician (Lighting Technician) – Sets up and troubleshoots lighting rigs in studios and on location.
Carpenter (Set Construction) – Builds and designs sets for student and professional productions.
IT Specialist (Network & Systems) – Maintains digital infrastructure, including online learning platforms.
Broadcast Technician – Ensures smooth radio and TV transmissions.
Top 5 skills most suited:
Creative Problem-Solving – Essential for overcoming production challenges and innovating new concepts.
Collaboration & Teamwork – Media projects often require multi-disciplinary teams.
Digital Literacy – Familiarity with software/hardware for film, TV, radio, and multimedia production.
Project Coordination – Keeps schedules, resources, and budgets on track.
Stakeholder Engagement – Builds industry partnerships, sponsorships, and community outreach.
Top 5 work experiences most suited:
Media Production House Experience – Demonstrates practical skills in film, TV, or radio.
Government or Public Sector Role – Shows ability to navigate regulatory frameworks and budgets.
Events & Festivals Coordination – Highlights planning, scheduling, and collaboration abilities.
Education/Teaching – Reflects training and curriculum development capabilities.
Freelance Creative Work – Displays versatility and adaptability across various media.
THE KEY FACTS 🎯
Name of Department: Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS)
Name of CEO: Dr. Nell Greenwood
Location: Primarily in Sydney, NSW, serving the whole of Australia through in-person and online programs
Year Founded: 1973
Main mission and purpose of the department:
Mission: To empower Australian storytelling by nurturing the next generation of screen and broadcast creatives.
Real-world example: AFTRS alumni have worked on globally recognized productions—showcasing Australian culture and talent on the world stage.
Main duties of the department:
Providing hands-on training and higher education courses in film, TV, and radio.
Offering professional development programs for industry professionals.
Conducting applied research to stay ahead of trends in screen and broadcast media.
Real-world example: AFTRS students gain skills to produce everything from indie films to prime-time TV shows.
Key Projects, Key Strategic Priorities, Future Plans, and Initiatives:
Digital Learning Upgrades: Continually updating platforms and facilities to maintain a cutting-edge learning environment.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborating with production houses and media companies to create internship and placement opportunities.
Technological Exploration: Embracing virtual production, immersive media, and other emerging technologies.
Regional Outreach: Identifying and supporting up-and-coming talent in rural and remote communities.
Did you know?
AFTRS is consistently ranked among the top film schools globally, with many of its graduates earning accolades such as Oscars, BAFTAs, and AACTA Awards.
THE EMPLOYEES & REVENUE 📊
Total Number of Employees: Approximately 150
Total Number of Employees at Each Pay Level:
Entry/Support Staff: ~50
Mid-Level Academic & Administrative Staff: ~60
Senior Management & Specialist Roles: ~30
(Estimates for illustrative purposes based on the most recent data)
Salary Bands:
Entry-Level Roles: $50,000 – $70,000
Mid-Level & Specialist Roles: $70,000 – $110,000
Senior Management: $110,000 – $180,000+
Average salary in the department: Around $80,000 – $90,000
Total Revenue: Approximately $30 million
Average Revenue per Employee: Roughly $200,000
GETTING A JOB AT AFTRS 📝
Which academic subjects are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Certificate / Diploma Level:
Screen & Media, Technical Production, Business Administration
Why? These foundational programs build practical skills for on-set and administrative work.
Bachelor / Master Level:
Film, Television & Radio Production, Communication, Business Management, Education
Why? These degrees provide in-depth knowledge of creative production, stakeholder engagement, leadership, and curriculum design.
PhDs:
Media & Cultural Studies, Creative Arts, Education Research
Why? Advanced research credentials support curriculum development and innovative industry insights.
Which trades and professions are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Trades such as set construction, audio engineering, lighting, and carpentry are essential to practical production work.
Professional roles include lecturers, administrative officers, financial managers, IT specialists, and student support staff to keep day-to-day operations running smoothly.
Which work experiences are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Media production (film, television, radio), event coordination, marketing and communications, educational roles, and project management are all valued for their direct relevance to an institution focused on teaching and creating media content.
Which skills are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Soft skills:
Communication, teamwork, adaptability, creative thinking, time management
Technical skills:
Camera operation, sound mixing, video editing, digital media software, analytics for audience engagement
General skills:
Budgeting, project coordination, leadership, public speaking, administrative efficiency
Which hobbies and interests align with the work of this department?
Filmmaking, creative writing, podcasting, photography, theatre, and digital content creation. These show genuine passion for storytelling and the media arts.
Want more information on this department?
Address: The Entertainment Quarter, 130 Bent Street, Moore Park NSW 2021, Australia
Telephone: +61 2 9805 6611
Email: info@aftrs.edu.au
Website:
https://www.aftrs.edu.au
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