Documentary Australia

Issue area

Human Rights & Social Justice

Human Rights and Social Justice address the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals and the promotion of fairness and equality in society. Over time, the focus has expanded to include civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. It is crucial to recognise that human rights violations can occur on both the individual and systemic levels and discrimination based on race, gender, sexuality, and socioeconomic status still exists, with marginalised communities continuing to be disproportionally impacted.

From Women’s Suffrage and the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, to the civil rights movement and the #MeToo movement, people have been fighting for their rights and demanding justice for years. Social justice is essential to ensure equal access and rights to resources and opportunities such as education, healthcare, housing, and employment. With the help of documentary films, these issues have been brought to light and are gaining more attention than ever before.

By showcasing real-life stories, documentary filmmakers can bring attention to human rights violations, stimulate dialogue, foster empathy, and inspire action. Documentaries can capture the lived experiences of individuals affected by social injustices, amplifying the voice to those who have been silenced or unseen. Documentaries also serve as historical records, documenting past struggles for human rights and providing valuable insights into the progress made or areas that still require attention. By showcasing the experiences of marginalised communities and successful social justice initiatives, documentary films can raise awareness and promote a more just and equitable world.

Completed Documentary Australia-supported Human Rights & Social Justice projects:

Incarceration Nation Brazen Hussies Under Cover
Where to watch: SBS Where to watch: Apple TV, Google Play, DocPlay Host a community screening
Undermined – Tales from the Kimberley Constance on the Edge Gayby Bayby
Where to watch:  Apple TV, Google Play, DocPlay Where to watch: DocPlay, Vimeo Where to watch: DocPlay, Fetch TV, Madman TV

Films that need your support

The Last Hurrah

Maggie Eudes

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Other documentary projects in this issue area

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Haocheng Yu

A documentary on Asian migrants — their true Aussie identity and their seemingly unrequited love for their new home.

Maggie Eudes

In an offbest funeral home, an eclectic team of women are revolutionising the experience of death, blending dark humour and unconventional rituals to redefine the way we grieve and how we farewell our loved ones.

Lukas Radovich

"Here If You Need" follows Australia's passionate, lesser-known male Netball players in the pursuit of recognition.

Woodrow Wilson

'Syndemic’ follows the Australians performing critical surgeries in underserved regions amid a global health crisis.

Khadim Dai

The story of the film maker’s Hazara family from Afghanistan, and their 20 year journey to seek safety.

Jack Steele

Wiradjuri leaders fight to restore traditional cultural burning practices and protect their land.

Mark Street

Cyclops is a life affirming story of a group of African Australians coping in a time of political strife through dance.

Nicola Woolmington

Music is spirit - this is a music journey of a music explorer like no other, where art seriously questions technology.