John Upton was a graduate of the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) and wrote extensively for television and stage. His television scripts include Palace of Dreams, Rafferty's Rules, Butterfly Island, Neighbours, Prisoner, Cop Shop, The Restless Years and Special Squad.
Upton was president of the Australian Writers' Theatre from 1981-1986, an organisation established by playwrights to promote Australian plays and help train young playwrights.