New era to stay the same until 2009: Garrett

The Minister for the Arts, Mr Peter Garrett MP, announced this week that existing film agency guidelines for continuing programs will remain in place under Screen Australia until the end of the year.

 

Screen Australia commences on 1 July 2008 following the merger of the Australian Film Commission, the Film Finance Corporation and Film Australia Ltd.

 

“While Screen Australia will need to develop new policies and programs to address the challenges facing the film industry, I am keen to provide certainty for the industry in the short term while the merger is taking shape and to avoid any hiatus in production activity,” the Minister said.

 

“This timeframe will also give the new Screen Australia Board, once appointed, time to properly review all of the organisation’s programs and structures. This will ensure they are appropriate to the functions and responsibilities which Screen Australia will have in strengthening the industry through building screen businesses and supporting projects of
cultural merit.”

 

The decision follows a recommendation from Interim CEO of Screen Australia, Lyn Maddock, after consultation with key industry groups over the last month.

 

Ms Maddock is managing the merger of the existing agencies ahead of the appointment of the incoming Board and permanent CEO.