In June 2011, the Premier and Minister for the Arts, Lara Giddings, launched the Screen Tasmania five-year strategic plan, describing the screen industry as a vital part of Tasmania's cultural and economic development.

The strategic plan outlines many of the ways Screen Tasmania will work with the local industry over the next five years to support the development and production of innovative, high-quality screen content.

Through the Lens to 2016 was developed following extensive consultation with the Board, industry and stakeholders. This five year strategic plan and vision for the industry outlines how Screen Tasmania, working closely with the Tasmanian screen industry, will navigate growth, change and opportunity over the next five years.

“The screen industry has become an integral part of Tasmania’s vibrant creative arts community,” Ms Giddings says.

“Tasmania boasts a wealth of stories and storytellers and film, television and animation providing a way to share those stories with the rest of the world.

“In recent years these stories have ranged from our convict past to futuristic thrillers, always making the most of our stunning locations and creative people.

“At various stages, these projects have received support from Screen Tasmania, including development and production.”

Director of Screen Tasmania, Karena Slaninka, says the strategic plan was designed to maximise opportunities in the rapidly changing media landscape.

The five year plan provides a framework for Screen Tasmania to support high-quality, marketable and commercially-viable projects, with the aim of significantly increasing the amount of locally generated production.

“In order to increase production activity, the scope of projects supported will be broadened with a major focus on series television and the previously unsupported area of factual entertainment, such as lifestyle and format television shows.

“New technology, such as the National Broadband Network, will also act as a driver for innovative production and also a medium for allowing Tasmanian audiences to see more local stories seen on their television, computer and mobile phone screens.

“The screen industry holds significant potential for Tasmania’s future, and decisive action taken now will position Tasmania strongly as a leader in this new media environment.”

The strategic plan highlights four key themes:

• quality and innovation
• growth and sustainability
• promotion and participation
• performance and accountability.

The plan’s primary aim is to provide a framework for Screen Tasmania, in consultation with the industry, to develop and implement funding programs that support the development of high-quality, marketable and commercially-viable Tasmanian projects, with the aim of significantly increasing the amount of locally generated production.

Download a pdf copy here.