The Morrison Government continues to support the recovery of the arts and entertainment sector, with 125 independent cinemas to share in more than $7.3 million from the $20 million Supporting Cinemas’ Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods (SCREEN) Fund.
Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said these grants would assist independent and regional cinemas to remain viable following continued disruption to their operations from the Omicron variant.
“Independent cinemas are a vital component of Australia’s economic, social and cultural wellbeing, which is why we continue to provide one-off business continuity grants to support the cinemas resurgence from prolonged closures and capacity restrictions,” Minister Fletcher said.
“The Morrison Government has committed $17.7 million to date from the SCREEN Fund to support 200 independent cinemas across the country to keep their doors open, continue offering employment opportunities, and carry on showcasing diverse stories to entertain their communities.”
Administered by Screen Australia, the Government announced a second round of the SCREEN Fund in December 2021 to support independent cinema operators with grants of up to $85,000 if they have experienced significant declines in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Screen Australia CEO Graeme Mason said, “With the pandemic continuing to impact independent cinema operators, we are pleased to continue to administer the SCREEN Fund to support the viability and recovery of Australian independent cinemas, and ultimately make it possible for Australians to keep enjoying the immersive big screen experience when they can safely do so.”
The Morrison Government is investing a record $1 billion into the arts and creative sector in 2021-22.
