Canberra Throws Support Behind Local Screen and Games Talent
Canberra is cementing its position as a burgeoning hub for digital creativity, with Screen Canberra and the ACT Government announcing the inaugural recipients of the new Canberra Screen and Games Fund. This significant initiative is set to bolster both local game development studios and established screen production companies, providing crucial backing to bring ambitious projects to life and foster homegrown talent.
The fund has seen an “overwhelming interest” from across the digital games and television and film production sectors, according to a Screen Canberra spokesperson. This strong response underscores Canberra’s growing reputation for producing world-class digital games and compelling visual storytelling.
Local Game Studios Powering Up
Three prominent Canberra-based game studios are among the first to benefit from the Games Production grants, designed to fuel the development of their latest ventures.
- Uppercut Games: Renowned for critically acclaimed titles such as Submerged and City of Brass, Uppercut Games is now channeling its expertise into its next major project.
- Space Dragon Games: This studio is currently developing Null and Void, a unique ‘satirical deckbuilding tower defence’ game that promises a fresh take on the genre.
- Anecdote Games: Players can look forward to Outpost, a suspenseful game where the objective is to escape an Antarctic research station that has become overrun by infinite versions of the player character.
Beyond these established studios, the fund is also providing vital Games Development funding to early-stage concept projects from emerging talent. This includes new studio Moon Jump and independent developer James Wakeham, signalling a commitment to nurturing the next generation of game creators in the ACT.
Film and Television Production Companies Shine
The Canberra Screen and Games Fund extends its support to a diverse range of film and television production companies, recognising their significant contributions to the creative landscape.
- WildBear Entertainment: This company is actively developing the upcoming season of the popular ABC series Stuff the British Stole.
- Ronde Media: Known for its work on Bondi Rescue, Ronde Media is producing an ‘observational documentary’ slated for broadcast.
- Olympia Pictures: This production house is co-producing a feature film, demonstrating its ambition in the cinematic space.
- Good Shout: This company is developing a ‘one-off special’ with a focus on sports, promising engaging content for audiences.
Cultivating Dream Careers in Canberra
Michael Pettersson, ACT Minister for Business, Arts and Creative Industries, highlighted the profound impact of the fund. “We all know Canberrans who grew up dreaming of a job making video games or a career in film and television,” he stated. “Supporting the success of these industries in Canberra doesn’t just help grow and diversify our economy. It helps some Canberrans get their dream job, right here at home.”
Minister Pettersson also drew a parallel to the former Canberra Screen Investment Fund, noting its success in fostering the TV and Film sector. “This first round of recipients demonstrates the depth of talent, innovation and ambition thriving in the ACT,” he added, expressing excitement about the strong response to the new fund.
Holly Trueman, CEO at Screen Canberra, emphasised the strategic approach of the fund. “By backing established players like WildBear, Uppercut Games and Ronde Media alongside innovative studios and production companies like Space Dragon Games and Good Shout, we are ensuring Canberra continues to be represented in the global creative economy,” she explained. The organisation anticipates seeing significant achievements stemming from this essential new fund.
The Canberra Screen and Games Fund represents a significant investment in the ACT’s creative future, fostering a vibrant ecosystem where local talent can flourish and contribute to both the economy and the cultural landscape.
