Game On Australia: Empowering Local Developers in the Video Game Industry
Intro
In the dynamic world of video gaming, Game On Australia emerges as a beacon for local developers striving to make their mark both domestically and internationally. Spearheaded by the Interactive Games & Entertainment Association (IGEA), this initiative significantly amplifies the opportunities for Australian game developers. As the brainchild of IGEA, Game On Australia offers a strategic platform to foster innovation, creativity, and economic growth by empowering local talent to thrive in a highly competitive industry. This initiative is an essential step towards addressing the unique challenges faced by the Australian gaming sector and enhancing its global standing.
Background
The launch of Game On Australia by IGEA marks a crucial development in the Australian video game landscape. This initiative couldn’t have come at a better time, as the industry currently generates approximately $339.1 million in revenue, yet faces the stark reality of deriving 93% of that revenue from overseas markets. This reliance highlights the need for more robust local support and funding (source). A pivotal element of this initiative is the Digital Games Tax Offset (DGTO), offering substantial financial incentives to game developers in Australia. Comparable to a lifeline, the DGTO is designed to alleviate financial pressures and incentivize local creation by providing rebates for companies that meet the required $500,000 minimum qualifying expenditure, with a maximum rebate cap of AU$20 million yearly per company.
Trend
Currently, a prevailing trend within the Australian gaming market is the increasing focus on supporting local developers through various funding programs and resources. With around 2,500 people employed in the industry, the demand for enhanced support systems and resources continues to grow (source). This trend echoes a global shift towards nurturing home-grown talent, which parallels the way local ecosystems are nurtured in other creative industries like film. The more support the gaming sector receives, the more likely it is to produce content that not only resonates locally but also has a strong international appeal.
Insight
Game On Australia is not just an initiative but a movement poised to transform the competitiveness of local developers. By encouraging collaboration and interaction, this platform seeks to drive creativity and innovation. Players like IGEA are pivotal in this narrative, enabling synergistic partnerships that can enhance market presence. Moreover, by emphasizing funding programs such as the DGTO, the initiative not only attracts developers but also cultivates a conducive environment for business exploration, thus laying a strong foundation for sustainable economic growth.
Forecast
Looking ahead, the ramifications of Game On Australia are promising. This initiative is expected to lead to significant growth in the local video game industry, reducing its current dependence on international markets. As funding improves, we anticipate a surge in local content creation, potentially increasing employment opportunities and boosting the economic contributions of the sector. If successful, Australia could gain recognition not only as a gaming hub but also as a pioneer in developing industry best practices for nurturing local talent.
CTA
For developers eager to dive into this burgeoning field, now is the prime time to explore the opportunities that Game On Australia offers. By engaging with resources and funding pathways, aspiring game developers can strategically position themselves to capitalize on the vast potential of the gaming industry. To learn more, developers should visit the initiative’s detailed resources and consider joining this vibrant, supportive community to tap into the wealth of opportunities available (source).
