Susie Montague Becomes Founding Donor of the NCM Patrons Circle

The National Communication Museum (NCM) is proud to announce that filmmaker, producer and philanthropist Susie Montague has recently become the founding donor of the newly launched NCM Patrons Circle.

The NCM Patrons Circle was created to support the museum as it expands its role as a leading space for exploring the social and cultural impact of technology and communication.

A prominent figure in Australia’s film and cultural sector, Montague has worked across the screen industry for more than 30 years as a producer, director and advocate. Her film credits include the acclaimed Pawno and Ride Like a Girl. Beyond film, Montague is widely recognised for her philanthropic and advocacy work, including support for the Melbourne International Film Festival’s digital expansion during the pandemic and her role as a Patron of the Victorian Pride Centre. Montague, a mother and grandmother, also works across education, advocacy and documentary projects focused on Indigenous rights, bio-cultural diversity and social justice.

Montague’s contribution marks the beginning of a new chapter for NCM. The Patrons Circle is designed to support us in creating a new creative technology network in Australia. Through our in-house team of technologists and our Knowledge Hub, we will be building digital literacy, shaping the future of creative practice and exploring the ethical engagement with and adoption of emerging technologies. Much like the role museums have historically played in helping societies understand periods of rapid industrial, political and cultural change, NCM is focused on helping audiences navigate the complexities of the digital age, from AI and algorithmic systems to misinformation, surveillance and the changing nature of human connection.

A long-time supporter of the arts and screen culture, Montague sees the museum’s role as both timely and necessary. “We are living through extraordinary technological change, but often without enough space to properly reflect on what it means for society,” she said. “NCM creates that space. It encourages curiosity and brings people together to think critically about technology through a human lens. Supporting institutions like this feels more important than ever.”

NCM places communication at the centre of broader conversations about culture, identity and social change. Through immersive exhibitions and public learning programs, the museum explores not only the history of communication technologies, but the ways they continue to shape relationships, politics, creativity and everyday life. It is particularly valued for bringing different generations together by creating a place where children and grandparents can explore and make sense of technological change side by side.

Montague’s support reflects growing recognition of the role museums can play in public understanding during periods of rapid transformation. As NCM continues to evolve as a contemporary cultural institution, the launch of the NCM Patrons Circle represents an investment in a space where Australians can better understand and question the technologies reshaping the world around them.

The NCM Patrons Circle brings together individuals who share our vision for an independent, ethical and creative technology future. Donors who contribute $2,500 or more become part of an exclusive circle helping to build digital literacy, safeguard Australia's communication heritage, and shape the future of human-centred technology.

We are not beholden to any platform, any government, or any commercial interest. The NCM Patrons Circle makes that independence possible.