The Australian film and television community is reeling from the tragic loss of Liz Tomkins, a profoundly respected producer, advocate, and former chair of Women in Film and Television (WIFT) Australia, who died suddenly in a car accident on Monday, May 26, 2025, at the age of 42. Her unexpected passing has sent shockwaves throughout the nation’s screen industry, where she was celebrated not just for her extensive talents but also for her tireless work championing women’s rights and representation in film and television.
Liz Tomkins was a trailblazer in every sense. Over two decades, she built an impressive and versatile career, taking on roles that spanned producing, production management, bookkeeping, and other essential behind-the-scenes positions. Her impact was felt not only in Australia but internationally, where she fostered partnerships and collaborative projects that bridged continents.
A native of Queensland, Liz made significant contributions to major international productions, including critically acclaimed projects like The Pacific, the ambitious sci-fi series Terra Nova, and the beloved Doctor Who spin-off K9. Her ability to navigate the complexities of these high-profile productions showcased her professionalism, creativity, and leadership skills. Most recently, she co-produced the 2024 Australian horror feature Rippy, starring genre icon Michael Biehn, famed for his role in The Terminator, alongside actress Tess Haubrich, known for her work on Home and Away. The film pushed boundaries within its genre, and Liz’s role in bringing it to life highlights her ongoing passion for innovative storytelling.
Just days before her death, Liz stepped down from her leadership role at WIFT Australia, where she had served as chair for three transformative years. Under her guidance, WIFT Australia experienced significant growth in visibility and impact. She spearheaded initiatives that advanced gender equity in the screen industry, ensuring more women had opportunities in all facets of film and television production. Her leadership was marked by a dedication to mentorship, advocacy, and community building, inspiring countless women to pursue and thrive in their creative careers.
The official statement from WIFT Australia captured the deep sense of loss felt by the community: “It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our colleague, former chair, and friend Liz Tomkins. The Australian screen community has lost a shining light, an inspirational and dynamic leader, and a wonderful human being whose legacy will endure for generations to come.”
Tributes have poured in from every corner of the industry. Colleagues praised Liz’s vision, empathy, and steadfast commitment to fostering an equitable environment where women could rise as leaders and innovators. She was known for her ability to connect deeply with others—encouraging creativity, collaboration, and resilience in the face of the entertainment world’s many challenges.
Liz’s influence was not confined to Australian shores. In the early 2020s, she expanded her horizons by relocating to North America, where she worked closely with the Canadian Australian Chamber of Commerce. Her efforts there were instrumental in fostering international collaborations and co-productions, strengthening ties between filmmakers, studios, and creatives across countries. This global perspective enriched her understanding of the industry’s dynamics and enhanced her ability to advocate for diverse voices in film and television.
Her professional achievements were matched by her warmth and generosity. Friends and collaborators recall Liz as a person with boundless enthusiasm and a heart full of kindness. She approached every project, every meeting, and every conversation with genuine care and commitment. Her business partner, Judd Tilyard of Dicentium Films, as well as frequent collaborator Toby Barron, remember her not only as a visionary producer but also as a steadfast friend and partner whose passion and integrity were inspiring.
Liz is survived by her mother, Betty Petrie; father, Peter Tomkins; and brother, Brett Tomkins. Her family and close friends are mourning the loss of a beloved daughter, sister, and friend, whose light touched so many lives. The outpouring of grief on social media and in the film community demonstrates the wide-reaching impact she had.
The suddenness of her passing has left the industry grappling with the loss of a formidable advocate at a critical moment in the ongoing fight for gender equality in film and television. Yet, her legacy continues to inspire. The programs and policies she championed at WIFT Australia will carry on, benefiting future generations of women in the industry. Her work toward fostering inclusion, opportunity, and creative excellence serves as a powerful reminder of the change that dedicated leadership can bring.
The Australian film industry has lost not just a producer but a champion of stories that matter, a mentor to emerging talent, and a tireless voice for equity. As the community gathers to celebrate her life, the resonance of Liz Tomkins’ contributions will continue to echo in the halls of film studios, production offices, and theaters across the country and beyond.
Plans for memorials and tributes are expected in the coming weeks, where friends, family, and colleagues will share memories and honor her enduring influence on Australian cinema and television.
The tragic loss of Liz Tomkins underscores the fragility of life and the enduring power of passion and dedication. While her life was cut far too short, her work and spirit live on, inspiring those who knew her and the countless others who will carry forward her vision for a more inclusive and vibrant screen industry.
As the industry mourns, it also recommits to the values Liz so passionately advocated: creativity without barriers, leadership for all voices, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in storytelling.
Her legacy is one of hope, progress, and the unwavering belief that the stories we tell shape the world we live in. Liz Tomkins may no longer be with us, but her spirit will continue to guide and uplift the Australian film and television community for years to come.
The post Liz Tomkins Obituary: Queensland Native and WIFT Australia Leader Dies in Tragic Car Accident at 42 first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
The post Liz Tomkins Obituary: Queensland Native and WIFT Australia Leader Dies in Tragic Car Accident at 42 first appeared on Voxtrend News.
