Development applications triple in NSW

According to Screen NSW, applications for the agency’s development programs have tripled in the last three financial years, while funding has doubled.

“More people are eligible, more applications are being received, more projects are being funded for development, more money is being spent on development, more feedback and support to shortlisted and funded projects is being provided, and greater access to high quality development expertise is being offered,” CEO Tania Chambers told Encore.

Chambers said applications for the Early Stage Development Program had increased from 94 in 2007/09 to 272 in 2009/10, while funding had increased from $540,880 in 2007/08 to $829,931 in 2009/10. In terms of the Advanced Development Program, launched in 2009, 18 out of 48 applicants have been approved ($145,575).

According to Chambers, the Screen NSW development process has been designed “in consultation with the industry and taking into account changes at Screen Australia and the introduction of the Enterprise Program”. The state agency’s programs include Aurora, the Early Stage Development program and the Advanced Development and Marketing Programs.