PUBLISHED25 May 2026
Advancing Impact Sydney Workshop Wrap
Documentary Australia’s ‘Advancing Impact: Crafting Documentary Impact Campaigns for Social Change’ workshop was held over two days in Sydney recently, bringing together 21 screen sector professionals from across New South Wales and interstate. The workshop was delivered by the Documentary Australia team, including CEO Dr Mitzi Goldman, Head of Partnerships and Communications Sharlene Dadd, CFO Lisa Sherrard and Impact Directors Lisa Kanani and Stephanie King.
Supported by Screen NSW, the intensive workshop provided a structured, practical exploration of how documentary teams can design and deliver effective impact strategies. Sessions presented by the Documentary Australia team focused on key areas including campaign design, impact partnerships, audience engagement and campaign activities, alongside detailed guidance on budgeting and navigating Australia’s philanthropic landscape to support sustainable fundraising and maximise project impact.
Reflecting on the workshop, Impact Director Lisa Kanani said, “We explored how to develop strong impact strategies, build meaningful partnerships, and design campaigns and activities that drive social change. It was a fantastic two days filled with energy, generosity and connection, in a room full of passionate filmmakers and impact producers who showed up, shared openly and learned together.”
Head of Partnerships and Communications, Sharlene Dadd added, “It was an honour to present to the filmmakers on how to fund and develop support and partnerships for their projects. As always, I’m inspired by the filmmakers’ courage and determination to share their very personal truths and experiences in pursuit of a better world.”
Participant feedback underscored the workshop’s value, with one attendee explaining, “The Advancing Impact Workshop was genuinely very useful. I left excited about the possibilities and inspired by the conversations. The connections with the Documentary Australia team and the cohort made the experience especially worthwhile, and I look forward to continuing the relationship.”
Documentary Australia CEO Dr Mitzi Goldman summed up the workshop by saying, “There is nothing more energising than getting into a room together to share ideas and experiences, to listen to each other and learn. The power of this work is in the people who do it. Our filmmakers are our greatest resource and the champions of empathy, understanding and change. Supporting their goals is a privilege. We are at our best when we are working together, sharing what we’ve learnt to build the ecosystem.“
