The Briefing Rachel Perkins takes us inside the Australian Wars we weren't taught
Jan 9, 2026
Rachel Perkins, an acclaimed Indigenous Australian filmmaker and founder of Blackfella Films, opens up about her transformative journey in storytelling. She discusses her latest project, The Australian Wars, which challenges conventional narratives about colonization through the lens of both the colonizers and the Indigenous people. Perkins shares insights on the importance of truth-telling in film, her experience co-chairing the Yes campaign, and her commitment to supporting future filmmakers. Her passion for reclaiming history and fostering hope shines through in this engaging conversation.
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Referendum Work Was Deep And Costly
- Perkins co-chaired the Yes campaign and spent years volunteering on the referendum, which she calls a major loss.
- She used the experience to reflect and channel lessons into future positive actions.
Use Hope And Rest To Rebuild
- Hold on to hope as a galvanising force when activism feels crushing and progress stalls.
- Use pauses to recover and reframe energy before starting the next creative project.
Open Doors For The Next Generation
- As AFTRS chair, Perkins prioritises opening doors and easing access for diverse, ambitious students.
- She links institutional support to addressing cost-of-living barriers for future storytellers.
