LOCAL CINEMAS SECURE MUCH-NEEDED FUNDING BOOST

The Federal Coalition Government has announced a funding boost for local independent cinemas at Taree, Tuncurry and Laurieton.

More than $17.7 million has been invested from the Coalition Government’s SCREEN Fund to support 200 independent cinemas across the country, in the wake of the COVID pandemic.

Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie said cinema operators were bouncing back after COVID and continuing to deliver family friendly, low-cost entertainment for the local community. 

“I’m pleased to announce that Fays Twin Cinema at Taree, Great Lakes Cinema 3 at Tuncurry and the Plaza Theatre at Laurieton have been approved for funding support, totalling $155,000 as part of the $20 million SCREEN Fund,” Dr Gillespie said.

“The Nationals in Government are supporting this critical community industry which was shut down for a number of months last year because of health orders.

“I caught up recently with Taree operators Peter and Jaire Howard who are pleased recent

 restrictions have now lifted and business is slowly returning to normal.”

Peter Howard said his business had managed to retain all staff throughout the period. 

“We have about 40 staff between our cinemas and we’ve been able to keep them in jobs which has been extremely important,” Mr Howard said.

“Thanks to David for going in to bat for us; we’re looking forward to a great year ahead.”

Administered by Screen Australia, a second round of the SCREEN Fund was announced in December 2021 to support independent cinema operators.

SCREEN Fund applications are open until 30 April 2022 or until total funds are committed.

For more information and to check eligibility, visit: https://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/funding-and-support/covid-19-support/screen-fund