ArtsHub

Victoria's screen industry is abundant with talent, inspiration and expertise; the home of a number of film collectives and valiant independent filmmakers. What is has lacked is funding and governmental support. Launching the $178 million Victorian Screen Industry Strategy 2009 – 2014: Our Vision on Screen today, Innovation Minister Gavin Jennings described the strategy as a blueprint for growth and success in Victoria’s world-class screen sector. “The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to support Victoria’s film, television and digital media industries which boost the economy and create jobs for our State,” Mr Jennings said. “When this Government was elected, the screen sector was neglected, with little leadership from government and many productions heading to other states. “Since then, the sector has got back on its feet and last year generated production activity of $172 million, directly creating 5164 full-time equivalent jobs. The past two years have seen record levels of economic activity generated by the Victorian industry. “There are still significant challenges facing the local industry, with globalization meaning that, more than ever, we are competing directly on the world stage. The continued growth of digital and multi-platform entertainment also presents challenges but also opportunities for Victoria.” Mr Jennings said the strategy also sets out a framework for driving investment, exports and jobs, enhancing industry skills and boosting audiences for Victorian creativity and cultural identity. He said feedback gathered as part of the recent Screen Industry Review identified four key foundations for building a sustainable industry sustainability by increasing jobs and investment, creating world-class content, engaging audiences and building skills in the industry. New initiatives include: • An incentive grant to encourage visiting productions to use local talent in key creative and technical positions; • A Global Connections Support program to send local screen professionals overseas to source international business partners and finance; • A Development Cash Flow Project to explore how best to support Victorian producers who need to finance time-critical productions; • Business support programs to help screen companies build business and entrepreneurial skills; and • Exploring the expansion of Film Victoria’s Slate Development program which provides companies with capital for research and development of projects. The strategy also offers continued support for the Film Victoria production investment programs, the Melbourne International Film Festival Premiere Fund, the 37 South Production Market, the Australian Film Industry Awards and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image. “In addition, Film Victoria will for the first time monitor the local and international audience numbers for productions supported by Victorian Government. This will provide the industry with a better picture of how audiences react to those productions,” said Mr Jennings. Mr Jennings said supporting projects that stimulate jobs and investment and improve infrastructure and services will help make Victoria’s screen industry stronger and better prepared to take advantage of new opportunities. Victorian Screen Industry Strategy 2009 – 2014: Our Vision on Screen can be viewed online at www.diird.vic.gov.au/screenstrategy