Screen Australia to invest AUD30 million in interactive TV & games

Australian government production funding body Screen Australia  announced that it will commit AUD $30 million for new interactive and multi-platform programs over the next three years.

The agency’s support for interactive and multi-platform content now incorporates new Federal Government funding through the Australian Interactive Games Fund, as well as funding previously provided through Screen Australia’s former multi-platform programs.

Screen Australia will distribute AUD$12 million of funding in the first 12 months, which will include:

• AUD4-5 million for games production
• AUD2-3 million for multi-platform drama production
• Up to AUD2 million for multi-platform documentary projects

Australia’s Minister for the Arts Simon Crean said, “I’m delighted the industry consultation process has generated so many innovative ideas around the ways to foster interactive and multi-platform content. It will ensure the great local talent in the industry continues to have a competitive advantage.”

Ms Cameron, COO of Screen Australia said, “This suite of programs will encourage relationships across screen production sectors, acknowledging the similarities as well as the differences between games development and other screen production activity.”