Born in Nambour, Queensland, Benjamin Law has become one of Australia’s most recognised writers, broadcasters and playwrights. In the first episode of our Spotlight series, Benjamin reflects on growing up Asian and gay in 1980s and 1990s Australia.
Drawing on his teenage years growing up in his family’s Chinese restaurant in regional Queensland, and navigating his parents’ divorce, Benjamin wrote his memoir The Family Law, which was later adapted into an SBS television series.
His portrayal of life within a Chinese Australian migrant family has resonated strongly, particularly among Asian Australian audiences and emerging creatives seeking authentic representation.
Benjamin also speaks candidly about his creative journey - from early self-doubt to national recognition - and about negotiating the expectations often placed on culturally diverse storytellers. Rather than striving to embody a “perfect” version of identity, he reflects on embracing difference and complexity as a source of creative strength.