The Australian screen sector has overcome digital disruption to post strong growth over five years, with overall economic output climbing by 13 per cent to $22.5 billion.
The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in the cancellation of four screen industry events, halted production on Netflix's Clickbait and two major movies, and postponed shooting of two big TV reality shows.
While production shutdowns are causing mass unemployment among all sectors of the screen sector, some practitioners see an upside.
The suspension and postponement of numerous screen productions has disrupted directors as much as any industry cohort - but many continue to develop film and TV projects.
Last month Netflix announced it had set up a $US100 million relief fund to support cast and crew who lost their jobs when Netflix-funded productions were shut down or delayed.
Matchbox Pictures' MD Alastair McKinnon outlines the company's emphasis on development, reflects on the success of 'Stateless' and his bullish, post-pandemic outlook.
Australian directors working on productions in the US get far more time, money and resources than they were accustomed to at home.
The $1 million Film and TV Emergency Relief Fund launched by Netflix and music industry charity Support Act will start dispensing money within a couple of weeks.