The son of a preacher man and a tradie lady, Bali Padda was once set for a “safe” career in IT, until the stage called him home. Now a respected multidisciplinary director, producer, actor, dramaturg and screen executive, Bali has become a vibrant force in Australia’s creative industries, championing representation, equity and powerful storytelling.
After years in strategic and bureaucratic roles, working to dismantle systemic barriers for historically excluded communities, Bali joyfully returned to the stage in 2022. His directorial debut, Guards at the Taj (National Theatre of Parramatta), received rave reviews and led to a national tour in 2024. He has since directed Sunderella, The Village, King James and Champions, and produced major works including In The Space Between, Lighten Up and Minority Box.
From 2018 to 2021, Bali worked at Screen Australia as an Industry Development Executive, shaping initiatives across story, production, talent and equity. He’s consulted with Screen NSW, Screenwest, the Screen Diversity & Inclusion Network, AFTRS, the ADG and many more.
In 2024, Bali founded Little Goat Arts & Entertainment, a company built on courage, care, and cultural change, creating space for nuanced, brave stories that reflect the richness of our communities.
As a performer, Bali has appeared on stage in Jatinga, Legally Blonde, Singled Out, and internationally in Festa! and Lost & Found Orchestra. On screen, he’s starred in Letters Home, Top of the Lake: China Girl, Over and Out (Cannes Winner), and joins ABC’s Optics in 2025.
Named a Young Professional of the Year finalist by the India Australia Business & Community Awards, Bali’s legacy is clear, he lifts others as he rises.
“Because I’ve had the ‘outsider’ experience, I’ve made sure that anytime someone new comes in, I try to include them and make them feel like they know everyone.” – Bali Padda
His impact isn’t just in what he creates but how he makes people feel seen.
📸 by
@johnnyvision 
