Screen Queensland Invests $5 Million to Elevate Australian Game Development

Queensland aims to lead the nation in the video game industry.

Screen Queensland, in collaboration with the Palaszczuk Government, has unveiled a AUD $5 million funding boost for game development in Queensland, Australia. Eligible game developers will have access to this funding and support through various programs, including the Digital Games Incentive (DGI), Games Grants, and the Games Residency program, all of which will receive enhancements over the 2023 to 2024 period.

Funding Breakdown: The Palaszczuk Government has committed AUD $2 million, while Screen Queensland will contribute an additional AUD $3 million, with the goal of bolstering the local game development sector.

Economic Growth: This investment is expected to leverage the rapid expansion of Queensland’s digital games industry, which witnessed an 11% increase in full-time employment in 2022, resulting in the creation of approximately 300 new jobs. The Australian games industry, now valued at over AUD $284 million, is set to benefit from this initiative.

Leadership Position: Queensland, with around half of the game jobs created in 2022 situated within the state, aims to solidify its status as a leader in the Australian game development market.

Government Support: Bart Mellish, Assistant Minister to the Premier, highlighted the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to fostering growth in the digital games sector and commended the 15% Digital Games Incentive for its role in driving unprecedented industry expansion.

Local Talent: Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney emphasized the talent within Queensland’s game development community and how this funding will facilitate long-term growth, solidifying the region’s reputation as an innovation and technology hub.

Past Projects: Screen Queensland supported a variety of local video game projects in the 2022-2023 period, including titles like Gameloft Brisbane’s “The Oregon Trail,” Tantalus North’s “Cities: Skylines – Remastered,” and works from other developers. This new funding round for 2023-2024 is anticipated to provide similar benefits to both emerging and established game developers in Queensland.

Conclusion: With substantial government and Screen Queensland investment, Queensland’s game development industry is set to thrive, contributing to the state’s reputation as a leading hub for innovation and technical advancement within the global gaming market.