Phrasemaker

Screen Queensland has announced a significant investment in the state’s digital games sector, committing a total of $2.1 million to support 17 new projects. This funding includes $1 million distributed through the Games Grants program and an additional $1.1 million allocated via the Digital Games Incentive.

Increased Support for Independent Developers

The latest round of Games Grants funding has doubled, offering up to $200,000 per round and increasing the lifetime cap per project to $300,000. This boost underscores Screen Queensland’s commitment to fostering the growth of the local independent games industry​ (Content + Technology)​​ (Screen Queensland)​.

Notable Funded Projects

Among the recipients, Fuzzy Ghost’s “Janet DeMornay is a Slumlord (and a witch)” is notable for its unique exploration of themes such as renting and queerness in an inner-Sydney suburb. Other funded projects include “Momento” and “Servonauts,” which are progressing to new stages of development​ (Screen Queensland)​.

The Digital Games Incentive supports various projects, including “Cozy Caravan” by 5 Lives Studios and an unannounced project from Gameloft Brisbane, offering a 15% rebate on qualifying expenses incurred within Queensland​ (Screen Queensland)​​ (Screen Queensland)​.

Government and Industry Support

Arts Minister Leeanne Enoch and Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney highlighted the critical role of government support in driving the sector’s growth. Since 2021, local employment in the games industry has surged by 155%, and local expenditure has increased by 123%, reflecting the success of these initiatives​ (Screen Queensland)​.

Future Opportunities

Screen Queensland continues to support the industry through various programs, including the Games Residency, which provides early-career developers with mentorship and resources. The next round of Games Grants opens on June 7 and closes on July 21, 2024, offering new opportunities for local developers to secure funding​ (Screen Queensland)​.

For more information on the funding programs and application details, visit the Screen Queensland website.