Greens level up* and secure inquiry into Australian video game industry

The Australian Greens have secured a Senate Inquiry into the Australian video games development industry.

The Senate supported the inquiry call, moved by Australian Greens deputy leader and communications spokesperson Senator Scott Ludlam.

"Five years ago, Australia had a burgeoning video game development sector employing thousands of talented people in this rapidly growing industry.

"Internationally, companies have experienced strong growth thanks to smart government support and favourable regulatory settings.

"In Australia, no such luck: the sector has been treated like the poor cousin of the creative industries, culminating in the Abbott Government's decision to close the $20 million Australian Interactive Games Fund, just 12 months after it was established.

"This inquiry will help establish what the government should be doing to support Australia's games industry and the employment, economic and creative benefits it delivers to the nation.

"The inquiry will begin accepting submissions in the coming days, with public hearings to be held in the near future. I look forward to working with the Committee to do what we can to help get the industry back on its feet," Senator Ludlam concluded.

The Inquiry will be conducted by the Senate Standing Committee on Environment and Communications and is due to report in April 2016. Dates for submissions and public hearings will be announced shortly.

* Sorry. Couldn't help it.

Terms of Reference:

That the following matter be referred to the Environment and Communications References Committee for inquiry and report by 1 April 2016:

The future of Australia‘s video game development industry, with particular reference to:

(i) how Australia can best set regulatory and taxation frameworks that will allow the local video game development industry to grow and fully meet its potential as a substantial employer,

(ii) how Australia can attract video game companies to set up development operations in Australia and employ local staff,

(iii) how export opportunities from Australia‘s local video game industry can be maximised, and

(iv) any other related matters.