From Sydney Stages to Global Screens

Editorial Assistant Shreya Arora shines a spotlight on the Australian-born talent that have risen through the ranks and centred themselves firmly on global stages watched by all

A new generation of Sydney’s creative scene is reaching global audiences through film, television and digital media.

An emerging local star is Macquarie University alumnus Josh Heuston, whose series Off Campus has attracted a global audience. Growing up in Sydney’s west, Heuston began filming lifestyle videos with friends in local parks and nature reserves [1]. He was later scouted while working as an event waiter, going on to pursue modelling before transitioning into acting. Heuston’s journey reflects the increasing international reach of Sydney-based creative talent.

Similarly, Sydney-born actress Milly Alcock has become one of Australia’s most prominent actor representatives on the global stage. Raised in Petersham, Sydney, she began her career in Australian television before gaining international acclaim for her performance in House of the Dragon [2]. She has since taken on the lead role in DC’s latest Supergirl production. Despite her rapid rise to global recognition, Alcock remains closely connected to her Inner West roots.

Similarly making her mark in the global arena is Catherine Laga’aia, the Sydney performer cast as Moana in Disney’s live-action adaptation of the animated film. Laga’aia was selected from more than 32,000 applicants worldwide and completed her Higher School Certificate (HSC) while filming overseas [3]. She credits the supportive and competitive environment at Newtown High School of the Performing Arts as instrumental in shaping her creative foundations. Notably, Laga’aia’s casting has been recognised for its cultural significance, offering representation for Pacific Islander communities and inspiring young performers.

From social media to the silver screen, these Sydneysiders have become symbols of a creative generation defined by ambition, adaptability and global reach.

by Shreya Arora

References:

[1] McFadyen, E. (2021, October 11). Josh Heuston on craft, character, and building a collective. Just Smile Magazine (in partnership with MR PORTER). https://justsmilemagazine.com/home/josh-heuston-craft-character-collective 

[2] Hussey, S. (2025, December 1). Inside Milly Alcock’s meteoric rise from the Inner West to Westeros. Forbes Australia. https://www.forbes.com.au/news/30-under-30/inside-milly-alcocks-meteoric-rise-from-the-inner-west-to-westeros/ 

[3] Gossling, B. (2026, July 1). Catherine Laga’aia beat 32,000 girls to play Moana. The toughest competition was at home. The Sydney Morning Herald. https://www.smh.com.au/culture/movies/catherine-laga-aia-beat-32-000-girls-to-play-moana-the-toughest-competition-was-at-home-20260630-p60b89.html