Screen Canberra has launched a new Screen Fund to support gaming and direct-to-viewer projects for the first time, offering more generous spending requirements and introducing non-recoverable grants.
The fund, announced today, lowers local spending standards for film and television productions seeking grants of up to $300,000, moving from the previous 1:7 loan or equity investment model to a more accessible 1:4 ratio (i.e., every $1 in funding requires $4 in eligible ACT spending). Large projects will continue to be evaluated on capital terms.
Under the new system, development funding is no longer supported, although early stage development funding remains available through Arts ACT’s activity funding.
The direct-to-viewer production spend ratio is also 1:4, with a cap of $40,000.
For games, the eligible spend ratio is even lower at 1:2, with a development cap of $30,000 and a production cap of $100,000.
Announcing the fund, ACT Minister for Business, Arts and Creative Industries Michael Pettersson said Canberra has one of the highest concentrations of game creators per capita in Australia.
“We want to help local game developers take their products to the next level,” he said.
“By investing in screens and games, we are supporting jobs and growing Canberra’s creative economy,” the minister said.
“Canberra’s film industry has shown steady growth, particularly in documentary production, television series and feature films. It attracts national and international audiences, generates local economic activity, provides employment opportunities and builds on Canberra’s reputation as a creative destination.”
Screen Canberra CEO Holly Trueman said the fund reflected the changing landscape of the industry.
“With specific streams for gaming, direct-to-viewers, and film/TV, we focus resources on production, create jobs, and deliver results,” she said.
“By extending financial support to digital games, we are building a comprehensive ecosystem that supports creators across all screens.”
