Michael Balk

Actor, TV Presenter, Speaker, MC and Host

Michael Balk is one of Australia’s most prolific entertainers, with a two-decade career spanning TV, stage, radio and film. Most recognized for his work in children’s content, he is the actor behind the beloved scrapboy from dirtgirlworld and Get Grubby TV on the ABC, Michael has appeared in over 1000 episodes of Australian and internationally broadcast TV.

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Michael Balk is one of Australia’s most prolific entertainers, with a two-decade career spanning TV, stage, radio and film. Most recognized for his work in children’s content, he is the actor behind the beloved scrapboy from dirtgirlworld and Get Grubby TV on the ABC, Michael has appeared in over 1000 episodes of Australian and internationally broadcast TV. Currently working with Nine Entertainment as a producer and presenter, Michael uniquely appears daily with both commercial and public broadcasters.

Michael is an experienced compere and MC who has worked with a diverse range of clients with a natural ability to deliver the perfect tone. From an intimate group of ten for a media launch for Queensland Rugby Union, to Suncorp Stadium for a record-breaking crowd of thousands for a concert, Michael is at home in front of a camera as he is a thronging crowd. Having hosted events from the Sydney Olympics Torch Ceremony, to mainstage acts at festivals such as Woodford and Splendour in the Grass, he has introduced speakers and musicians of world renown; His Highness the Dali Lama, Terri Irwin, Angela Lansbury, Jimmy Barnes and John Williamson, to note a few.

A proud member of MEAA since 2000, Michael is currently a professional member of AACTA and the President of Equity Queensland.  Michael is also a member of the National Performers Committee, and represents Queensland on the Equity Foundation Program Committee and the Animation Committee.

Michael leads Queensland charity – the Actors’ & Entertainers Benevolent Fund – and actively campaigns for a successful and sustainable entertainment sector. Deeply passionate about Australian Content, and living within the ever-changing landscape and architecture of the performing arts industry, Michael has worked with most stakeholders across the sector to shape the business we know today.

In addition to his background as a performer, Michael’s work as a director, producer and creator enables a unique and refreshing insight into the world of children’s content, and the broader context of the performing arts.

Professional development sessions and masterclasses can be complicated to facilitate. Even when information is dry and the speakers are nervous, Michael makes it happen with ease and charm. He is able to relay important information in an effortless way. Michael is funny, engaging, and most of all, authentic. Equity Foundation
I’ve watched this man move an audience to tears, inspire a crowd to powerful protest and compel the highest levels of government and industry with a proficiency rarely seen. Media Entertainment Arts Alliance
Michael Balk is a natural host and emcee. With a relaxed style and witty banter he commands a room with charm. Michael can read a room adapting his style and content accordingly as an event unfolds. I feel confident watching Michael host knowing that any event he emcees is in the safe hands of a seasoned professional. Kate Gould and Associates
Whatever the tone of our event, Michael hits it every time. From a serious and formal event to a screaming crowd for live and broadcast events, Michael can do it all. Nine Entertainment
If you need fun, relatability and a sense of adventure, Michael is the perfect choice. He presentation was dynamic, effortless, and meticulous. He had excellent rapport with our audiences. Out of the Box Festival
Michael was generous with his time and was always fun, professional, disarming and suave, you always be assured you are in good hands with Michael behind the microphone. Feedback from sponsors and participants of these functions always praised Michael and his efforts in ensuring the success of the event. Heritage Bank
I have through a number of roles over the past twelve years had the pleasure of working with Michael Balk. Each occasion was supporting worthy charities. Michael was the first person I called upon when we needed a host for a partner event or fundraising program. Beautiful You - Charity
The Foundation operates in world where loss and hope are inseparable. To find the right tone to share our stories, to host our events, requires a very special skill. Michael Balk is the consummate professional. He made our patients and families feel safe and supported, and gave our partners and donors the acknowledgment and gratitude they deserve. And, without fail, he always gave our staff a sense of confidence that whatever might go wrong, no one will ever know. Having worked on four telethons together and countless partner events, Michael helped the Foundation to raise over $40m; for improved equipment, research and ongoing support for sick children. Children’s Hospital Foundation