Women in Media has appointed Anita Jacoby AM as chair and Bridget Fair as deputy chair, ushering in a new leadership team for the organisation.
This change comes as founding member and former co-chair Victoria Laurie steps down after nearly two decades of dedicated service and advocacy for women in the Australian media sector.
Jacoby AM, one of Australia’s most esteemed television producers and media executives, brings an exceptional breadth of experience and leadership to her new role. Fair, CEO of Free TV Australia, adds her extensive expertise in television and media to the leadership team. Both appointments take effect immediately for a three-year term.
“I am honoured to chair Women in Media alongside such an esteemed board,” said Jacoby. “Our mission to empower women and promote gender equality in the media sector has never been more urgent. Through our innovative programs, we will continue to elevate women’s leadership and amplify their voices across the industry.”
Fair echoed this sentiment, stating, “Supporting an equitable media industry not only opens up pathways for women, but also strengthens economic participation. This is crucial for the ongoing growth and vibrancy of Australia’s media landscape.”
Laurie, a founding member and former co-chair, reflected on the organisation’s evolution, expressing her confidence in the new leadership. “I’m thrilled that Anita and Bridget, along with our exceptional board, are poised to create new opportunities for the Women in Media community. From the very start, our mission has been to empower women across Australia’s media sector, and I remain deeply passionate about this cause,” she said.
Jacoby acknowledged Laurie’s legacy, adding, “On behalf of the Board, I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Victoria for her extraordinary leadership. She has been a driving force behind Women in Media, and her dedication has been instrumental in building the organisation into what it is today. With over 6,700 members, her impact has significantly strengthened the media landscape.”
Women in Media continues to address the ongoing challenges and barriers women face in the industry, as outlined in the Women in Media Industry Insight Report 2024. The report reveals that 57% of women (up 3% from last year) remain dissatisfied or uncertain about their career progress, with early- and mid-career women particularly affected. The findings highlight the critical need for continued gender equity efforts, career development pathways, and greater access to resources for women across all roles and media sectors.