LOCAL CINEMAS TO BENEFIT FROM FEDERAL GRANTS

The Federal Coalition Government has announced a second round of grant funding for local cinemas continuing to struggle through the Covid-19 downturn.

Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie and Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan have urged eligible local cinema operators to apply.

“Local cinema owners have been hit hard by months of lockdowns and both Pat and myself have been advocating strongly for further Government support,” Dr Gillespie said.

“This is an additional $9 million rescue package, following on from Round One of the SCREEN (Supporting Cinemas’ Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods) Fund and I’m delighted The Nationals in government have been able to deliver this assistance.”

Mr Conaghan praised the tenacity of local operators and their preparedness to fight hard for their survival.

“Our regional cinemas are at the heart of our entertainment and tourism industry,” Mr Conaghan said.

“This new funding round is our Government’s strong show of support, acknowledging the tough times they are still going through.”

Majestic Cinemas CEO and Vice President of Independent Cinemas Australia, Kieren Dell, thanked the local MPs for going in to bat for regional businesses.

“Cinemas at Forster, Taree, Laurieton, Port Macquarie, Kempsey, South West Rocks, Nambucca Heads and Sawtell will all be welcoming this package,” Mr Dell said.

“The impacts of the pandemic downturn on our industry have been different to your average business. We’re continuing to cross our fingers about the Omicron variant, but we have great product for the first time in a while and we’re excited to see everyone coming back to the movies.”

Grants under the second round of funding will be available to eligible cinemas which can demonstrate that their box office revenue for the period 1 July 2021 to 30 September 2021, was more than 30 per cent below their box office revenue for the corresponding period in 2019.

Applications can be made after 24 December until 30 April 2022.

To apply for the Fund visit: The SCREEN Fund - COVID-19 Support - Funding and Support - Screen Australia