24 Feb 2022
Keeping independent cinema doors open in South Australia | Media Release
THE HON PAUL FLETCHER MP
Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts
SENATOR ANDREW MCLACHLAN CSC
Senator for South Australia
JOINT MEDIA RELEASE
The Morrison Government continues to support the recovery of the arts and entertainment sector in South Australia with $205,000 awarded to Wallis Cinemas at Mt Barker, Noarlunga and Mitcham under the first set of grants from the second round of the $20 million Supporting Cinemas’ Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods (SCREEN) Fund.
Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said a total of 125 independent cinemas across the country would receive a share $7.3 million from the latest round of SCREEN Fund grants to support their resurgence from COVID-19 disruption.
“Independent cinemas are a vital component of Australia’s economic, social and cultural wellbeing, which is why we continue to provide one-off business continuity grants to support the cinemas resurgence from prolonged closures and capacity restrictions,” Minister Fletcher said.
“The Morrison Government has committed $17.7 million to date from the SCREEN Fund to support 200 independent cinemas across the country to keep their doors open, continue offering employment opportunities, and carry on showcasing diverse stories to entertain their communities.”
Senator for South Australia Andrew McLachlan CSC said the latest grants would allow independent cinema operators to continue providing very popular entertainment for families. Going out and enjoying a movie is valued even more by local communities recovering from the impacts of Covid.
“I am incredibly pleased to announce that Wallis Cinemas has received $205,000 as part of the Federal Government’s $20 million SCREEN Fund,” Senator McLachlan said.
“Wallis Cinemas is an iconic South Australian, family-owned business that is highly respected across our community for its commitment to the arts and the South Australian film industry.
“The cinema business has been hit especially hard during the pandemic, so it is critical that we all support local, independent cinemas like Wallis who employee 200 South Australians.
“I encourage everybody to see a film. This will support local jobs at Wallis Cinemas as well as Australian film productions. You will also have a great night out!”
Administered by Screen Australia, the Government announced a second round of the SCREEN Fund in December 2021 to support independent cinema operators with grants of up to $85,000 if they have experienced significant declines in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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