Media Release

Screen Producers Australia (SPA) today acknowledges the sad passing of David Stratton,  beloved Australian film critic, writer and educator, renowned throughout the Australian and international screen industries.

 David’s love of cinema was lifelong, and his passion for Australian screen stories was sustained throughout his career. From 1966 to 1983, David was director of the Sydney Film Festival, as well as working for ABC and SBS, co-hosting The Movie Show and At the Movies with Margaret and David alongside Margaret Pomeranz between 1984 and 2014. He was a respected contributor to Australian film industry magazines, and also lectured in film history at the University of Sydney’s Centre for Continuing Education between 1988 and 2023. 

“The Australian screen industry mourns David’s passing, recognising his longstanding contributions to celebrating Australian screen stories. His decades-long career within the screen industry helped to spread love and appreciation for Australian screen stories to audiences worldwide. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time,” said SPA CEO Matthew Deaner. 

“David played a huge part in putting Australian cinema on the map, and as Australian stories continue to delight audiences far and wide, his legacy will live on,” said Mr Deaner.