Photo by Ben Baker

Don Bridges receives Equity Lifetime Achievement Award

Showbiz veteran recognised by his peers after six decades of work in film, theatre, TV, radio.

Published by David Knox
on April 1, 2026

The MEAA Equity Foundation has honoured veteran actor Don Bridges with the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his extraordinary career and deep commitment to the performing arts community.

Bridges has six decades of work across television, film, theatre and radio in Australia and the United Kingdo,m with more than 130 film and television credits, hundreds of short film performances, and more than 25 productions with the Melbourne Theatre Company.

His screen credits include Judy and Punch, Romper Stomper, Evil Angels, Malcolm, Gettin’ Square, The Hard Word, The Oyster Farmer, Charlotte’s Web, The Twelve, Nautilus, The Clearing, Jack Irish, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, Blue Heelers, Neighbours, Something in the Air and Upper Middle Bogan. He was also famously Norm the Kangaroo in 1980s Kid’s TV hit Shirl’s Neighbourhood.

MEAA Equity Federal President Asabi Goodman said, “Choosing a recipient for this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award was no easy task.

“Ultimately, we chose someone who not only has an impressive resume and longevity in the industry, but who also exemplifies what it means to be an Equity member — someone who has acted as an advocate for the community, supporting the ideas of collective bargaining that help strengthen our industry.”

Bridges is also an accomplished musician, director, voice artist and acting teacher and mentor, and Vice President of the Victorian Actors Benevolent Trust.

“I have always just tried to do the best work I can, and to always be there for younger performers, offering guidance and advice when needed,” he said.

“‘Passing it on’ is surely the best thing we can do for our industry and our colleagues.”

He joins previous winners including Bruce Spence, Maggie Dence, Peter Carroll, Bob Hornery, Jill Perryman, Ron Haddrick, Kevan Johnston, Toni Lamond AM, Grant Page, Anne Phelan, Noeline Brown, Julia Blake, Terry Norris, Lillian Crombie, Ningali Lawford-Wolf, John Bell, Anna Volska, Chris Anderson and Nancye Hayes AM and will receive his award at a ceremony at the Sydney Theatre Company in June.