SBS Welcomes Victorian Government Budget Initiative
Wednesday 8 May, 2013
SBS has welcomed the Victorian Government’s investment in the State’s film and television production sector and support for diverse multicultural communities.
SBS Managing Director Michael Ebeid said in the 2013-14 Budget, the Victorian Government had recognised the importance of two important areas that require Government funding, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, the film and television sector as well as the independent film sector.
The Victorian Budget outlined $26 million to support CALD communities, $8.5 million for the State’s screen practitioners and $2.5 million to strengthen the independent arts sector.
“Today, 43 per cent of Australians are born overseas or have a parent born overseas, four million people speak a language other than English at home and one million people cannot speak English. In this Budget, the Victorian Government have recognised that demand for these services will only continue to grow as Australia becomes more culturally diverse,” Mr Ebeid said,
“The telling of Australian stories is a powerful and necessary tool in breaking down the barriers which cause tensions and contributes to inclusive and cohesive society.
“In its Budget, the Victorian Government has demonstrated a commitment to supporting the film practitioners which generate original local content which helps to retain skills and create new opportunities for young people in our creative industries.
“SBS needs a strong local film sector to meet its Charter obligations to reflect Australia’s diverse communities. As a great supporter of our film sector through commissioned content, SBS is pleased the Victorian Government has today recognised the value of this sector.
“It is the kind of investment that other State Governments should look to as a model for ensuring there are opportunities for our film and production sector across Australia.”
For more information please contact:
Jessica Harris, Manager, Corporate Communications
T: 02 9430 2807 / 0409 188 743
E: jessica.harris@sbs.com.au