SBS Head of Commissioning John Godfrey to depart after 18 years – SBS Head of Commissioning John Godfrey will leave the broadcaster next month, bringing to a close an 18-year career that has helped shape some of the network’s most acclaimed and culturally significant programming.
Godfrey, who has served as SBS Head of Commissioning since 2022, has played a pivotal role in developing the broadcaster’s commissioning strategy and championing diverse Australian stories both on and off screen.
A legacy of landmark programming
Across his tenure at SBS, Godfrey has overseen the commissioning of some of the network’s most influential and enduring series, including Go Back to Where You Came From, Once Upon a Time in Cabramatta, Filthy Rich and Homeless, First Contact, Struggle Street and The Australian Wars.
He has also been instrumental in the success of returning SBS formats including Mastermind Australia, The Cook Up with Adam Liaw, Who Do You Think You Are? and, more recently, Alone Australia. His leadership extended to some of SBS’s most iconic television moments, including the broadcaster’s coverage of Eurovision.
Beyond programming, Godfrey championed initiatives designed to improve representation within the screen industry, including the implementation of SBS’s Commissioning Inclusion Guidelines.
Reflecting on an 18-year career
In a statement announcing his departure, Godfrey reflected on the impact of the stories SBS has brought to audiences.
“After 18 incredible years at SBS, now is the right time for me to step away. I have been fortunate to work alongside so many passionate colleagues, talented creators and production partners who share a belief in backing bold ideas, pushing boundaries and using the power of storytelling to open minds and hearts. I’m proud of the programs I have helped bring to screen, the voices they have elevated, the issues they have brought into focus and the conversations they have sparked in homes across Australia.
“I depart with gratitude for the people and experiences that have defined my time at SBS. I’m especially thankful to those who have trusted us to tell their stories, and to the many collaborators willing to take risks to create impact. It has been a privilege to play a small part in sharing those stories with Australians.”
Tributes from SBS leadership
SBS Managing Director Jane Palfreyman said Godfrey’s contribution extended far beyond the programmes he commissioned.
“John’s legacy extends far beyond the groundbreaking series like Go Back to Where You Came From that he commissioned for this network. It is reflected in the profound impact these programs have had on Australia’s national conversations – shaping our understanding of identity, culture and community.
“Through landmark productions such as Filthy Rich and Homeless, First Contact and The Australian Wars, John championed storytelling that challenged assumptions, broadened perspectives and encouraged meaningful engagement with our nation’s history, public policy and contemporary social issues. We thank him for his vision and leadership and wish him every success as he embarks on this next chapter.”
SBS Director of Television Kathryn Fink described Godfrey as a driving force behind the broadcaster’s creative ambition.
“SBS’s standing as a broadcaster renowned for bold ideas, fearless documentary-making and distinctive drama is due in no small part to John’s commissioning acumen and creative ambition.
“John’s passion for ensuring the diversity of Australia is reflected not just in the stories we tell at SBS, but in who tells them, has underpinned our position as a leader in inclusion in the sector. His legacy can be seen not only in the strength of SBS today, but in the broader impact he has had on the Australian screen sector.”
Godfrey will depart SBS in mid-July, concluding nearly two decades at the broadcaster.
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SBS Head of Commissioning John Godfrey to depart after 18 years
