Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley.
Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley has unveiled a new strategy for Victoria’s creative industries that signals "a welcome vision for Victoria’s screen sector", Film Victoria said.
The strategy outlines key actions to directly benefit Victoria's games, television and film industries.
Continued investment in professional development aims to strengthen Victorian screen practitioners by developing and increasing practical skills and industry knowledge.
A new focus on the growth of screen businesses is also designed to "build long term capability and strengthen the sector through supporting screen businesses looking to expand their operations by creating new business streams and market relationships".
Screen production will see sustained funding to support screen practitioners through the production of high quality film, television and online content; production attraction to the state; development and marketing support for Victoria’s games sector; and support for a range of film festivals and events.
Melbourne’s games sector will also benefit from the continued support of Melbourne International Games Week, connecting international attendees with Victorian talent.
In 2014-15 the Victorian screen industry contributed an estimated $1.4 billion to the State’s gross state product and over 11,500 full-time equivalent employees.
"The new Creative State strategy recognises the valuable contribution the screen sector makes to Victoria’s creative industries, and demonstrates Government’s commitment to seeing it continue to thrive”, Film Victoria's Jenni Tosi said.
“This significant funding commitment will provide stability and certainty for the Victorian screen industry in the coming years. It will help bolster Victoria’s film, television and games businesses and practitioners, and ensure the sector is positioned to continue delivering high-quality, engaging Australian screen content for audiences here and around the world to enjoy.”
The full Creative State plan is available to view here.