David Balfour appointed Head of Film and Television

David Balfour has been appointed as the new Head of Film and Television at the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA) within the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Fine Arts and Music.

David is an internationally recognised education leader, teacher, and film industry practitioner with extensive experience across the UK, USA, and Australia. His career spans various roles in the film and television industry, including senior positions at leading educational institutions.

Most recently, as Director of Teaching and Learning at the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) from 2020 to 2024, David oversaw the development and delivery of teaching programs, led curriculum innovation, and forged strategic industry partnerships.

In addition to his academic leadership, David continues to work as a producer and script development consultant for production companies in the UK and USA. He holds a Master of Arts in Producing from the National Film and Television School in the UK and is passionate about empowering new voices in screen storytelling.

David said he is thrilled to join the VCA as the new Head of Film and Television. “The VCA is an institution that for over 50 years has been at the heart of producing innovative and powerful Australian screen storytellers. Its graduates have had tremendous impact, not just in the industry, but on audiences globally,” he said.

“Working with my Faculty colleagues, I aim to build upon the VCA's stellar history, to enhance our programs and empower the next generation of creative practitioners. Our aim is to continue to be the vibrant, forward-thinking educational environment that nurtures creativity and produces the diverse, skilled storytellers ready to shape the future of film and television.”

Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts and Music Professor Marie Sierra said David’s appointment heralds a new era for Australia’s oldest film school.

“This appointment comes at an exciting time for VCA Film and Television,” she said. “With the recent launch of our pioneering LED Volume Studio facilities for virtual production, David will be well positioned to lead the school into the fast-moving future of screen storytelling.”

VCA Director Professor Emma Redding said David’s strengths as an educator and filmmaker, coupled with his global industry background, will benefit VCA Film and Television students enormously.

“With over 16 years of experience in higher education and international screen production, David is passionate about fostering innovation in curriculum design, embracing new technologies, partnering with industry, and promoting inclusive practices that prepare students for the dynamic realities of the screen industries and creative careers,” she said. “We look forward to seeing his impact on our venerated School of Film and Television.”

David will take up the position in December 2024.