History

The ACTF, incorporated as a non-profit public company in March 1982, has been in operation for more than four decades. Explore our history and legacy through these articles.

Series spotlight: Li'l Elvis Jones and the Truckstoppers

Decades before Bluey, an ambitious cartoon series featured Australian accents and humour, with an Aboriginal character front and centre — but Li'l Elvis and the Truckstoppers almost didn't get made.

A character to represent Every Child

Whether or not you're familiar with Lift Off!, there's one face – or lack thereof – that most Australian children of the nineties will recognise. In this article, we explain the philosophy behind EC and debunk the myth that children were terrified of the gentle puppet, who was beloved by the children of Lift Off! both on and off screen.

Series spotlight: Lift Off!

It's been 30 years since Lift Off! first aired, but three decades on it remains one of Australia's most iconic children's programs. In this article, we look back at what made this series so successful at the time, and why it still holds a special place in the hearts and memories of those who grew up watching it.

Series spotlight: Winners (1985)

As part of the Australian Children's Television Foundation's 40 year anniversary celebrations, we're looking back and shining a spotlight on 12 of our most iconic programs. In this article, we look back at the ACTF's first major production, Winners.

Interview with children's author and Winners screenwriter, Morris Gleitzman

Discover how Morris Gleitzman's screenwriting for "Winners" led to his successful career as a bestselling children's author.