More funds offered for screen writers

Budding movie and screen writers will be eligible for more generous development
grants from next year.

The federal government's newly formed agency, Screen Australia, will spend more than
$10 million on development grants in 2009-10.
This is close to 60 per cent more than the former Australian Film Commission had on
offer.
The agency has also introduced a new program to provide multi-year funding of up to
$500,000 a year for three years.
It has also allocated $4 million to indigenous programs, $2.5 million more than
previously allocated.
Screen Australia chief Ruth Harley said the future of the industry depends on the
talent of its people and the quality of their projects.
"We have re-thought the way in which the industry and projects are supported," Dr
Harley said.
"This fundamental philosophical shift will support practitioners to create
outstanding screen content that resonates with audiences."
Program guidelines are available at www.screenaustralia.gov.au/industry_support.