Advocacy and Lobbying

Advocacy and Lobbying

One of the core functions of DEGNZ as the representative body of directors and editors in New Zealand is to advocate and lobby to improve industry opportunities and conditions and raise awareness of the work of screen directors and editors.

We engage in dialogue with key policy-making bodies in Film, Television and the Arts generally, to ensure that directors’ and editors’ interests are properly represented and we have a clear, informed and effective voice.

We work to strengthen creative and remunerative rights, both nationally and internationally by lobbying in areas of funding and incentives, creative and cultural values, local content quota and intellectual property rights.

DEGNZ is an active member of We Create, the former Copyright Council, which works on behalf of the creative industries to raise awareness of the sectors’ contributions to a thriving Aotearoa New Zealand.

DEGNZ is a founding member of SINZ (Screen Industry New Zealand), a pan-industry body set up to encourage co-operation between member groups. These include the Screen Production and Development Association (SPADA), Equity New Zealand, New Zealand Writers Guild (NZWG), Women In Film and Television (WIFT) and Ngā Aho Whakaari – Māori in Film and Television (NAW).

We also work with Immigration New Zealand and industry associations to ensure that wherever possible, overseas directors and editors do not take work from local practitioners.