The Albanese Government has made four appointments to the Classification Board following a merit-based selection process.
The Board is an independent statutory body established to apply relevant legislation to ensure film, publication and computer game classifications reflect Australian community standards.
The four appointees collectively bring a wealth of industry experience that will ensure the Board continues to execute its important function.
Ms Hellen Perko is a Fine Art and Heritage Specialist and Valuer, with broad career experience in the Arts sector including leadership positions at auction houses and art galleries, as well as degrees in Fine Arts and Arts Administration. She is a fluent Serbo‑Croatian speaker and brings a culturally diverse awareness and connection to non‑English speaking communities. Ms Perko has been appointed as a full-time member.
Mr Raphael Richards has a background in primary school teaching and holds a Graduate Diploma of Education (Primary) from RMIT, a Graduate Diploma of Education (Secondary) from Melbourne University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies from LaTrobe University. Mr Richards has been appointed as a part-time member.
Mr Dominique Irlinger is the former CEO and Operations Manager of IMAX Sydney and former National Programming Manager of Dendy Cinemas. He has worked in the cinema industry as a General Manager and is a volunteer film programmer of foreign films. He has a Masters of International Relations, Bachelor of Arts in History and Literature, and has taught French internationally. Mr Irlinger has been appointed as a part-time member.
Mr Trent Bartfeld is an Educator and Freelance Writer/Content maker for corporate, public, community, educational, and film industry producers and entities. He has tertiary‑level Arts and Education qualifications, and has taught in primary and secondary school. He has lectured across tertiary and open programs in technical and creative filmmaking and screenwriting. Mr Bartfeld has been appointed as a part-time member.
The Government acknowledges the service of outgoing members Ms Ellenor Nixon, Mr Thomas Mann and Mr Iain Humphrey for their valuable contributions to the Board.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
“The Albanese Government is committed to ensuring the Classification Board has the right mix of skills and experience to fulfil its important functions.
“I congratulate Ms Perko, Mr Richards, Mr Irlinger and Mr Bartfeld on their appointments following the merit-based selection process.
“I am confident these new appointees will effectively support the Board as it helps Australians make informed choices about the kinds of content that are appropriate for themselves and their families.
“I thank Ms Nixon, Mr Mann and Mr Humphrey for their contribution to the Board over many years and wish them well with their future endeavours.”
