From the ashes – Bushfire survivors demanding action on climate

Ellen Burbidge’s journey is a blend of creativity, advocacy, and storytelling. With a Bachelor's degree in Film & Television, a background in the performing arts and experience in presenting, filmmaking and podcast production, Ellen has channelled her skills into one passionate cause: climate action and environmental protection.

But Ellen’s commitment goes deeper than just professional work—it’s personal. Having experienced the devastating bushfires of 2019-2020 near her hometown on the South Coast of New South Wales, she felt a profound need to amplify the voices of those affected. With a focus on storytelling, Ellen is dedicated to helping these communities share their experiences and advocate for climate action.

Susannah: What inspired you to take on this role? 

Ellen: After 10 years pursuing ethical, freelance acting and film work, I wanted to try something new. When I found the communications role at Bushfire Survivors for Climate Action (BSCA), I immediately resonated with their values and mission. I remember showing my partner excitedly and saying, “how perfect is this role for me?!” I applied just in time and was so shocked and excited when I got the role. Having experienced the horrifying Black Summer fires in 2019-2020 as they threatened my hometown and endangered my young nephews – climate inaction is personal to me.

I don’t care which window of the political house they sing from, I want politicians to start listening to the people on the street: those who have lived through the devastating impacts of climate change already. Since joining BSCA, I have fallen in love with the organisation and my colleagues. The team are incredibly intelligent, funny and sassy, and willing to speak from their own lived experience of bushfire to connect to the person behind the politician. We could almost have been called “Storytellers for Climate Action” – sharing our stories is at the heart of our advocacy.

Susannah: Can you share more about how you’re supporting the mission of the organisation?

Ellen: BSCA is about empowering people to share their stories, because our stories stop politicians in their tracks. People who have lived to see our favourite places, once filled with life – utterly devastated and silent, have important stories to tell. How do you ignore the people who have lost everything? Politicians can’t deny us, and they don’t forget us.

Over the last year, I’ve had the opportunity to use my skills in acting, filmmaking and storytelling to create short films, skits and social media content about the relationship between climate change, fossil fuel emissions and bushfires. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the positive reaction to this work – especially hearing from people within the climate movement about how valuable it is to have accessible, sharable climate information and real life examples of climate impacts. This feedback really means a lot, because ultimately, the goal is to reach more people and inspire them into action.

Susannah: Has there been an experience in your work that stands out as particularly moving or memorable? 

Ellen: Recently, as part of a special night commemorating Black Summer, we screened three short films I created, titled ‘Black Summer Stories’, at the Australian Museum. 

That night, we also launched The Australian Bushfire Survivor Declaration – a two-by-two metre statement written on canvas by survivors, outlining actionable steps for governments to take science-based climate action. Julia Zemiro (of Rockwiz and Fisk) emceed the night in literal and metaphorical sequins, Linda Burney came to represent the government and looked visibly moved, and even Billie Eilish’s Mum was in attendance!

Seeing the films and the unveiling of the declaration in front of a live audience gave me goosebumps. We spend so much time online, but climate change is real life, and I think we need to find ways to connect in real life to keep our motivation alight (so to speak).The short films are now on social media and will be screened at future events so that survivors don’t need to keep retelling their traumatic experiences. Meanwhile, the real-life declaration is touring Australia gathering signatures, stories and momentum. It will no doubt become an undeniable presence in our future meetings with politicians. You can add your name to the online declaration.

Susannah: How have you dealt with any moments of doubt or discouragement during your work? 

Ellen: I’m fortunate to be working with people who can be open with their grief when times are tough, or when progress is delayed. We don’t shy away from it. I end up having more capacity to be with difficult feelings because they’re being expressed and they’re being shared. Other things I do that help: I’m careful about how I spend my time online outside of work, I joke around with my partner, I play music, I sing! I read interesting and non-climate related things, I do expressive arts therapy, I reach out to friends a lot to hear about their days, and I spend a lot of time admiring nature. I certainly don’t forget to live this precious life.To narrow it down, the most essential tool in my emotional toolkit is gratitude. I’m so grateful for gratitude. It reminds me of all the things still left to experience and give love to.

Susannah: Along your journey, what’s one life lesson or idea that has shaped how you approach life and work?  

Ellen: Integrity is a core value for me. I have definitely taken a more challenging career path because of it, but it’s also the reason I’m proud of, and truly love, the work I do.

Susannah: Is there a collaboration in your work that’s been especially meaningful to you? 

Ellen: The climate movement at large is meaningful to me, especially the volunteers. It’s hard to feel lonely when you know so many dedicated, good-hearted people are working to protect the planet and our futures. The team I work with at BSCA (staff as well as volunteers) are particularly special beings – genuine, a little fiery, and most importantly, heart-led.