LAAFTA

The Los Angeles Australian Film and Television Association (LAAFTA) was founded in May 2001.

It provides a forum and meeting place for film and television industry professionals to view Australian films.

LAAFTA's mission is to create an environment where Australians and Americans can foster strong and long lasting relationships in the entertainment industry through Australian screen culture and the individuals who create it.

Goals

#Celebrate and promote the work of Australian film and television makers.
#Create a Los Angeles-based networking forum for professionals working in the film, television and allied industries who are Australian or who have a close association with Australia.
#Increase the visibility of the Los Angeles-based Australian film and television community.
#Provide a vehicle for raising the profile of Australian film and television productions.

Ambassadors

A powerful coalition of Australian directors and actors have signed teamed up to promote Aussie films and talent in Hollywood. Nicole Kidman, one of LAAFTA's ambassadors said, "Everyone knows how tough a struggle it can be to make it in Hollywood and, as an Australian, I'm very appreciative of the fact that Australians in Film not only showcases the work of those of us who have enjoyed some success, but also the work of up and coming talent from our country."

Other Aussie ambassadors include Mel Gibson, Russell Crowe, Naomi Watts, Geoffrey Rush, Cate Blanchett, Hugh Jackman, Phillip Noyce, Heath Ledger, Eric Bana, Anthony LaPaglia, Gillian Armstrong, Simon Baker, Toni Collette, Deborra Lee Furness, Melissa George, Scott Hicks, Barry Humphries, Julian McMahon, Jacqueline McKenzie, Kylie Minogue, Radha Mitchell, Poppy Montgomery, Olivia Newton-John, Frances O'Connor, Miranda Otto, Guy Pearce, Fred Schepisi, Hugo Weaving, David Wenham and Sarah Wynter.

References

[http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/03/25/1079939759604.html?from=storyrhs Our new Aussie ambassadors March 25, 2004 - 11:10AM] at smh.com.au