2017-12-06
The government has signalled today they will table their response to the future of Australian video games development industry inquiry by the end of 2017, 586 days late, after pressure from the Australian Greens.
Australian Greens IT spokesperson Senator Jordon Steele-John said Australia’s video games industry had put up with uncertainty from the government for too long, after the inquiry unanimously recommended ongoing investment and support on April 29 last year.
“Back at budget estimates in May Senator Fifield, in response to questioning from my predecessor Scott Ludlam who has been a tireless champion for the Australian games industry, stated a finalised draft had been submitted to the government for consideration,” Senator Steele-John said.
“That was 195 days ago– more than 6 months – so why has it taken the government so long?
“I can see why they might be terrified, given the inquiry also recommended the need for 21st century national broadband infrastructure, but six months is a long time in games development and it is a long time for the industry to wait on a response they’ve been told already exists.
“Game developers deserve to know whether this government cares about the future of their industry in Australia.”
Correspondence from Communications Minister Senator Mitch Fifield attached below.
Media contact:
Tim Oliver - 0448 316 387
