The Australian games sector has built some solid momentum over the past couple of years, but developers should be wary of increased economic challenges before stepping up their operations in 2024, according to IGEA CEO Ron Curry.
The Federal Government will provide an additional $19.6 million over two years from 2023 to expand the Digital Games Tax Offset so that it covers ongoing development work—known as ‘live ops’—on digital games following their release.
The games industry is among the early winners of next week's Federal Budget, which will include a 30 per cent Digital Games Tax Offset.
The Interactive Games and Electronics Association is aiming to keep gaming on the agenda in the lead up to the Federal Election, publishing a policy platform outlining objectives for the sector.
The Interactive Games and Entertainment Association is lobbying the government to establish a direct funding program similar to the now-defunct Australian Interactive Games Fund in order to support independent game developers.
The Interactive Games and Entertainment Association has encouraged the Australian games industry to consider its future pipeline of talent, following new data showing nearly 800 new jobs were created across the sector in the 2021/22 financial year.
The games industry in Australia is entering a new era, with the Digital Games Tax Offset and increased
direct investment in games from Screen Australia and state screen agencies. IF examines how the support will stretch beyond developers alone to benefit visual effects and post-production companies and creatives who have traditionally worked in film and television.
New South Wales has joined South Australia in widening its 10 per cent post, digital and visual effects (PDV) rebate to include game development.