Nineteen NSW screen organisations have benefited from more than $1 million in funding from the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government, delivering a range of professional development initiatives, film festivals and public screenings.
Screen NSW’s Industry Development Program has provided grants of up to $180,000 to 11 organisations to deliver workshops, seminars and professional development programs for NSW Screen practitioners at various stages of their career.
Organisations were also able to apply for grants of up to $30,000 through the Audience Development Program to host festivals and tours that provide opportunities for audiences to see and experience quality screen content and innovative practice.
Minister for the Arts Ben Franklin said the funding was a further commitment from the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government to ensure the State has a sustainable, world-class screen industry and enthusiastic audiences have every opportunity to engage with exceptional screen content.
“This funding is delivering access and inclusion masterclasses, mentoring programs, workshops supporting the development of under-represented screenwriting talent and significant networking opportunities at industry conferences,” Mr Franklin said.
“We want to support our next generation of screen professionals to grow their skills, knowledge and networks, providing them with meaningful and innovative career development opportunities – ensuring NSW remains the screen industry capital of Australia.”
“As well as supporting our local talent, this targeted funding is also about reaching new audiences. I’m thrilled Western Sydney and regional NSW have benefited from accessing diverse screen initiatives including Cinewest, the Bangalow Film Festival and the Perfect Light Film Festival in Broken Hill.”
Antenna Documentary Film Festival and Artistic Director David Rokach said the funding is a significant investment in the NSW screen industry and audiences.
“Screen NSW has been an important supporter of Antenna, enabling us to maintain a quality screening program, while making documentary films more accessible to a wider audience,” Mr Rokach said.
“Thanks to the Industry Development Program grants, we were also able to run activities alongside the festival that support and stimulate local documentary filmmakers.”