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Sydney wins new creative industries centre

[press release from Ian McDonald, minister for state development]

In a major boost to the NSW creative industries sector, Sydney was today announced as the location for the Federal Government’s new Creative Industries Innovation Centre, Minister for State Development Ian Macdonald said.

Mr Macdonald said the Creative Industries Innovation Centre, part of the Commonwealth’s Enterprise Connect program, will be based at the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS) and charged with growing Australia’s creative industries.

“This is great news for our creative industries sector in Sydney and NSW,” Mr Macdonald said.

“Having this centre here in Sydney will drive innovation and growth in the sector and hopefully inspire new talent to become involved in the industry.

“The ultimate aim is to create more sustainable jobs in our creative industries, enhance Australia’s international brand, and provide talented Australians with a competitive edge in global markets.

“The centre will attract Commonwealth funding of up to $17 million over four years to develop the skills and capacity of small and medium sized companies working in creative industries.

“It will assist companies ranging across sectors such as design, publishing, writing, architecture, visual arts, television, radio, advertising, film, performing arts, music, games and interactive content.

“Sydney is an excellent choice for this centre, given the city’s dominance in creative industries, which are one of five key areas being targeted for growth, so I would like to congratulations UTS for being chosen as the headquarters.

“NSW is home to 37 per cent of Australia’s creative workforce with creative occupations accounting for over five per cent of our State’s total workforce, or almost 150,000 jobs.”

Mr Macdonald said the centre will help creative industries improve their productivity and competitiveness, by providing professional business advisory and development services.

“It will build partnerships between researchers and businesses and assist creative businesses to access the latest creative technologies and market specific information.

The centre will deliver a wide range of services for companies including:
• Providing the best market knowledge, advice and research available;
• Helping businesses access Government programs and cut red tape;
• Access to industry intelligence, workshops and networking opportunities;
• Free Business Reviews – business advisers will work with firms to assess their business strategy and operations and identify strengths and weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement and growth; and
• Tailored Advisory Services – will help firms implement changes recommended in the Business Review by providing financial support to engage third party service providers and source expert advice.

“Among the founding university partners with UTS in this venture will be the University of Wollongong and University of Newcastle, providing a positive creative boost for our regions,” Mr Macdonald said.

The announcement follows the NSW Government’s research into the State’s creative industries earlier this month www.business.nsw.gov.au/innovation/projects.htm)

“This centre will complement the NSW Government’s ongoing efforts to grow our creative industries,” Mr Macdonald said.