The government of South Australia has announced a significant boost in its investment in the game development sector, doubling the Digital Games Fund to $1 million.

To further bolster the local gaming industry, the South Australian Film Corporation (SAFC) has increased its Digital Games Fund (DGF) to $1 million. This funding boost aims to assist local developers and follows last year's initial round, where $500,000 was allocated to 11 different companies.

The current DGF, South Australia's largest investment in game development to date, is divided into three streams: up to $30,000 for early-stage processes including pre-production and market testing; up to $150,000 for projects nearing commercial release; and up to $50,000 for tasks like localization and porting after the game’s release.

Alongside this year's DGF, the SAFC has unveiled the Game Studio Placement Program, which offers paid positions for budding professionals and those in the midst of their careers at regional studios. Applicants can receive salary and superannuation support for placements lasting six to 12 months.

Starting on Wednesday, October 21, applications for the DGF will begin, with the Game Studio Placement Program following later this year.

Initially created to stimulate the growth of local game creation, support business expansion, and enhance international game presence, the DGF has proven effective. Over 50 applications were received during the first trial run last October. Notable successes include Powerbomb Games' Pro Jank Footy, which reached top ranks on Nintendo Switch, and Bad Plan Studios’ End of Ember, now published by Rising Tide Publishing in Thailand. Furthermore, The Troll & The Witch's House from Little Bandit and Cowboy Fish's Peppermint were featured at PAX Australia.

Additionally, the DGF and Studio Placement Program serve as pathways to the SA Video Game Development (VGD) Rebate, which provides a 10% rebate for games with a minimum South Australian expenditure of $250,000. Introduced in 2020, this rebate has facilitated the creation of over 40 games within South Australia.

Leanne Saunders, acting CEO of SAFC, expressed enthusiasm about doubling the support for the state's gaming sector. She highlighted the potential for innovative games due to the increased funding, and emphasized the Game Studio Placement Program as essential for nurturing the next wave of developers while expanding studio teams.

Earlier this year, GamesIndustry.biz explored the trajectory of game development in Australia through its ups and downs and subsequent revival.