Documentary Australia

Impact Snapshots

The power of documentary storytelling to create social change

Documentaries have the power to connect with us emotionally and inspire us to take action. Documentary films can contribute to positive social change in many ways, from increasing awareness and shifting attitudes to inspiring action and influencing outcomes for individuals, organisations, communities and broader systems.

These impact snapshots have been developed from Documentary Australia’s research and evaluation findings. They demonstrate the power of documentary storytelling to create social change.

Thank you to the participants, film teams, partners and supporters for sharing these stories.

Careless

Impact Snapshots

Read and download these snapshots which demonstrate the power of documentary to create social change.

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Environment, Human Rights, Land Defenders

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Women and Girls, Gender Equality, Sports

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Health and Wellbeing, Mental Health, Relationships

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Youth and Education, Juvenile Justice

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Environment, Oceans and Marine Life

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Health and Education, Mental Health, Gambling

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Health and Education, Relationships, Domestic and Family Violence

Impact Snapshots

Changing Individuals

Documentaries inform, inspire and motivate action. By raising awareness and building empathy, they can influence attitudes and behaviours, often prompting audiences to learn more, get involved and advocate for change.

Woven Threads:
Stories from Afar

Woven Threads Thumbnail

Wash My Soul in the Rivers Flow

Wash My Soul thumbnail

Changing Communities

Documentaries bring people together around shared experiences and issues. They spark dialogue, strengthen connections and inspire collective action, helping communities move from awareness to meaningful change.

Incarceration Nation

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Countryman

Countryman thumbnail

The Narrow Bridge

The Narrow Bridge thumbnail

Watandar, My Countryman

Watandar, My Countryman thumbnail

Changing Organisations

Documentaries help organisations raise awareness, engage stakeholders and advance strategic goals. They support training, community engagement and innovation, while creating opportunities for new partnerships and programs.

The Surgery Ship

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The Show Must Go On

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Left Write Hook

Left Write Hook thumbnail

Regenerating Australia

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The Children in the Pictures

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Changing Systems

Documentaries can shape public discourse, support advocacy and influence policy. By elevating underrepresented voices and mobilising audiences, they help drive lasting social, cultural and structural change.

The Dreamlife of Georgie Stone

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External Reports

The Hunting Ground

Woven Threads

Children in the Picture

Woven Threads

Carbon

Woven Threads

In My Blood It Runs

Woven Threads

Learn more