COURTNEY Dawson loves films – in particular Australian films.

What started with five years working in a Canberra video store, has led Courtney to first class honours in film studies at the ANU, a brief stint at the University of Berkley in California and now work as a film critic/writer, work in online television and the owner of the entertainment website, moviemag.org.

But her passion has moved to a new height – she’s working on her own independent documentary, investigating the current state of the Australian film industry called “Advance Australian Film”.

“I’ve always been interested in Australian films and why people I know don’t support Australian films,” she says.

“They’d rather see a Hollywood film.

“It comes down to the fact that for $20 or more they want an experience.

“Australian films don’t give you the blockbuster experience.”

Courtney says it’s been more than 20 years since Baz Luhrmann’s “Strictly Ballroom” reached number one at the Australian box office and no other film has come close since.

“It would be great to see another Australian film reach number one at the box office, or even if it comes close,” she says.

“There needs to be more Australian films.”

Courtney, who’s from Ainslie but is currently living in Sydney for work, is researching, filming, directing and writing the doco and has managed to secure some big names in the film industry to make comment including George Miller, David Opitz, Andew Traucki and Anthony O’Connor.

She doesn’t just want to know what her industry peers think, but what everyday Australians want to see.

As part of her research, Courtney’s started up a Facebook page and a Twitter account to encourage feedback.

“A big part of it is I want people to join the forum on the website,” she said.

“I really want this to be a film that gets the public engaged.”

NSW-based independent screen learning and development organisation, Metro Screen, is supporting the film through its Jump Start scheme, which provides some equipment use, but funds are still needed for crew and other expenses such as archival footage and music licensing.

“I really do need funding,” she says. “Film making is extremely expensive, especially for emerging film makers.”

To donate, visit www.advanceausfilm.com/donate, the trailer’s advanceausfilm.com, moviemag.org or, to get involved in the conversation, visit facebook.com/advanceaustralianfilm or follow Courtney on Twitter @advanceausfilm

PHOTO: Aspiring film maker Courtney Dawson… “There needs to be more Australian films.” Photo by Silas Brown