Medich Foundation

Led by Roy Medich OAM and his son Anthony Medich, the Medich Foundation’s leadership support of Powerhouse Parramatta will establish the Medich Foundation Cinema and the Powerhouse Film Program, which echoes the family’s profound and lasting connection to Western Sydney, forged through a pioneering portfolio of independent cinemas that transformed the cultural and social landscape of the region.

The Medich Foundation’s generous commitment of $1 million will establish a 55-seat fully accessible state-of-the-art cinema on level 3 of the east building at Powerhouse Parramatta that will feature film screenings, cultural film festivals and speaker events directly connected to the museum’s creative program.

The cinema will be a vital part of Parramatta's identity, offering a space for diverse communities to share experiences, foster connections and cultivate a deep love for storytelling. This multiyear partnership builds on the Medich family’s long-standing connection to cinema and filmmaking in Western Sydney, which dates to the 1950s when the family-owned cinemas in Cabramatta, Chester Hill and Liverpool, then in 1973, Medich Production became the first independent film producer in Australia to make a major investment in international film production.

The Powerhouse Film program supports the Australian film industry through a range of initiatives. These include commissioning new works, offering fellowships to emerging artists, and providing valuable networking and mentoring opportunities. The program also hosts filmmaker Q&A sessions, showcases rising talent alongside established names bringing diverse cultural perspectives and storytelling styles to Powerhouse audiences.