The Andrews Labor Government is backing Victorian film, television and digital games projects with $10 million in new grants funding. Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley today announced 36 projects that have received funding in the latest round of grants from Film Victoria. Together, these projects will create more than 4,500 additional jobs for the local screen industry.
“Whether it’s destined for the big screen or small – our film, television and digital games industries are set to soar in 2018.” Minister Foley commented “We’re getting it done, backing local industry professionals so their great ideas can be shared here and around the world.”.
The Minister went on to explain that the ground-breaking film projects being supported include Ride Like a Girl – a film directed by Rachel Griffiths that tells the remarkable true story of Melbourne Cup winner Michelle Payne. Guy Pearce will take on his first directing role for the paranormal drama Poor Boy, written by Victorian Matt Cameron. Australia’s longest running television drama series Neighbours also received a funding boost to ensure it continues to produce more than 250 episodes right here in Victoria every year. It will also create opportunities for emerging writers, directors and technical crew over the next four years.
“Our investments in homegrown talent and projects will also create a pipeline for screen industry jobs.” Minister Foley commented.
The Minister said that Victoria’s thriving digital games industry will also benefit, with funding for 12 games projects – from a virtual reality adventure to a high-speed racing game with real cars, drivers and scenarios. The Labor Government’s support will inject more than $110 million into the Victorian economy in 2018 and beyond.
