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Closer ties between Aussie and Kiwi producers

Screen Producers Australia (SPA) and the Screen Production and Development Association of New Zealand(SPADA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to furtherenhance co-production opportunities between the two countries.

This signals a joint commitment to strengthen the relationship of Australian and New Zealand screen-based producers and to facilitate more creative exchange.

Australian and New Zealand production companies will benefit through the establishment of a framework that improves co-operation and the sharing of information between SPA and SPADA members, and between the governing bodies of both associations.

The MOU aims to capitalise and build upon the recent upsurge in New Zealand and Australian co-operation. Notable upcoming co-productions include Prospero Productions & Libertine Pictures’ Wild Survivor, Goalpost & Pukeko Pictures’ Project CM, and South Pacific Pictures and Seven Productions for the Seven Network Australia’s 800 Words.

Sandy Gildea, Executive Director, SPADA said: “Already, a great deal of business is being done between New Zealand and Australian producers and production companies, which is highlighted by the calibre of the New Zealand producer delegation attending the International Partnership Market at this year’s Screen Forever Conference. It’s vitally important that the independent production sector continues to build and strengthen existing international relationships, and we look forward to creatingmany future co-production opportunities with our Australian counterparts.”

Matthew Deaner, Executive Director, SPA said : “Our growing relationship with SPADA represents our continued focus on international production partners, and equally, the need to focus on nurturing the regional skills base. In the spirit of this agreement, we will work together to further foster close networks between the Australian and New Zealand screen industry. We are natural partners, sharing strong storytelling traditions and rich screen cultures.”