The 2015-16 Victorian Budget has provided $4.9 million in funding to the state’s screen sector, supporting more productions that will grow the industry and create jobs.
The Budget will provide the largest allocation to the creative industries since 2009-10, with the latest screen initiatives part of the $202 million allocation.
Victoria’s screen industry will be strengthened with an injection of $3.5 million into Film Victoria’s investment, development and skills programs.
These programs support Victorian screen businesses and practitioners across film, television, online and digital games to create content, build their skills and market their local projects.
Projects supported by Film Victoria directly spend more than $150 million in the state annually and provide jobs for more than 7,000 Victorians.
Major events and tourism drawcards will also be supported, with $1.4 million for the Melbourne International Film Festival Premiere Fund, the Indian Film Festival, and a new Chinese Film Festival.
Since 2008, the Melbourne International Film Festival Premiere Fund has supported leading productions, including Paper Planes, Balibo, Eye Of The Storm and Bran Nu Dae.
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne continues to grow and is now embracing collaboration across the broader creative industries through film, dance and fashion and showcasing Victoria's iconic cultural institutions.
Victoria’s strong relationship with China and eastern cinema will also be put on show through a new festival.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries, Martin Foley
“Our screen sector drives our creative industries, generating nearly $1.3 billion for Victoria’s economy and providing jobs for 10,000 people each year.”
“By investing in productions across the sector, we’re supporting the film industry to grow and strengthen, creating local stories for audiences and local jobs for Victorians.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020