The Australian gaming industry is projected to maintain steady employment levels with an anticipated revenue of $211.9 million in 2024
In 2024, Australia’s video game sector amassed $339.1 million AUD ($211.9 million USD) in earnings.
Despite a worldwide downturn in game development, full-time employment in Australia was unchanged, maintaining 2,465 developers, with 61% of studios anticipating new hires in the coming year. Furthermore, 81% anticipated either stability or growth in their workforce by 2025.
The Interactive Games & Entertainment Association (IGEA) disclosed in its report on the Australian Game Development Industry that 85% of the 137 studios surveyed focused on developing games from their original intellectual properties, with 93% of their income stemming from international markets.
The report also noted that Victoria remains a significant center for game development, hosting 52% of studio headquarters. The location of employees showed that studios often operate in multiple states, driven by talent availability and various incentives, although 82% are situated along the east coast (36% in Victoria, 27% in Queensland, 18% in New South Wales, and 1% in the ACT).
Ron Curry, CEO of IGEA, commented, "The growth in the local games sector continues amid global challenges. Australian-produced games attract significant international interest, with overseas sources accounting for 93% of Australia's gaming revenue."
"Substantial tax rebates and funding from federal and state governments are critical in enabling Australian developers to produce extraordinary games. The Digital Games Tax Offset was utilized by 25% of our respondents last year, with nearly 40% planning to apply in the current fiscal year. Sustaining this support is essential for the continued expansion and contribution of our industry to Australia's digital and creative exports," Curry stated.
The entire report is available for download on IGEA’s website.