THE Morrison Government has announced additional funding to support the arts and entertainment sector in Port Stephens, with $60,000 awarded to Nelson Bay Cinema under the $20 million Supporting Cinemas’ Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods (SCREEN) Fund.

Senator for New South Wales Jim Molan said the latest grants would allow independent cinema operators to keep providing a popular, low-cost and COVID-safe way for people to go out and enjoy a movie as part of their local community.

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“I’m pleased to announce that Nelson Bay Cinema has been approved for a $60,000 grant as part of the Morrison Government’s $20 million SCREEN Fund,” Senator Molan said.

“This funding will enable them to recover from severe disruption that has largely impacted their revenue streams, and work towards restoring normal operations as COVID-19 restrictions ease.”

Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said independent cinemas are a vital component of Australia’s economic, social and cultural wellbeing.

“The Morrison Government is continuing to provide one-off business continuity grants to support the cinemas resurgence from prolonged closures and capacity restrictions,” Minister Fletcher said.

“We want to keep their doors open, continue offering employment opportunities, and carry on showcasing diverse stories to entertain their communities.”

Administered by Screen Australia, the Government announced a second round of the SCREEN Fund in December 2021 to support independent cinema operators with grants of up to $85,000 if they have experienced significant declines in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nelson Bay Cinema joins Scotty’s Cinema Raymond Terrace as recipients of the funding, following a successful $60,000 awarded to Scotty’s Cinema in late February.

Under the first round of funding, 198 independent cinemas were supported, with applications still open for the second round of funding.

Applications will close on 30 April 2022, with more details available on the Screen Australia website at www.screenaustralia.gov.au/funding-and-support/covid-19-support/screen-fund

By Tara CAMPBELL