Media Release
The Hon Louise Asher MP
Minister for Innovation, Services and Small Business
Minister for Tourism and Major Events
Minister for Innovation, Services and Small Business Louise Asher today announced that screen projects supported in 2011/12 financial year by the Victorian Coalition Government through Film Victoria have leveraged total production expenditure of $152.7 million for the state, an increase of 89 per cent on the previous year.
Ms Asher said it has been a robust year for the Victorian screen industry marked by significant local and footloose production activity.“In the 2011/12 financial year, Film Victoria supported film, television and digital media projects that created 6,662 jobs for practitioners, supporting the local industry and providing many opportunities for small businesses and individuals,” Ms Asher said.“These strong figures can be attributed to the Coalition Government securing projects like feature film I, Frankenstein that filmed at Docklands Studios Melbourne and various locations around the city; TV pilot Frontier, which shot in regional Victoria; adult comedy feature Ted, which completed its visual effects here; and the mini-series Howzat! The Kerry Packer Story, among others.”
Ms Asher said local production is thriving and there has been a buzz of activity throughout Victoria.“More than $5.8 million was committed to 33 local projects through Film Victoria’s Screen Production – Investment program,” Ms Asher said.“Local television productions such as Offspring Season 3, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, The Dr Blake Mysteries and Jack Irish have created a real hype of activity in Victoria.“Eight regional projects were supported that commenced production in 2011/12 through the Regional Locations Assistance Fund, spending an estimated $2.3 million in regional Victoria.”
A summary of productions commencing in 2011/12, supported by Film Victoria include: 13 film projects, leveraging $59 million; 28 television projects, leveraging $90.1 million; and 13 games projects and one interactive project beginning development in 2011/12, which leveraged $3.6 million.
Film Victoria CEO Jenni Tosi said it had been a strong year for the Victorian screen industry despite the high Australian dollar and competitive environment.“In 2011/12 Film Victoria delivered significant support to local screen practitioners, businesses and projects through our programs and services,” Ms Tosi said.“The results we’ve been able to achieve reflect the talent, creativity and responsiveness of Victoria’s screen professionals, and their ability to tell stories that resonate with audiences.”
Media enquiries: Bronwyn Perry 0408 221 963 bronwyn.perry@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Visit www.premier.vic.gov.au for more news