Australian Screen and Games Sector Valued at $7.9 Billion

Australia's screen and games sector generated AUD11.1 billion, equivalent to $7.9 billion USD, in gross value added during the fiscal year 2023/24, according to the "Screen Currency 2026" study by Screen Australia. This significant economic contribution also directly supported 68,844 jobs in fiscal year 2024/25, highlighting the sector's substantial impact on the national economy. The report identifies the children's animated series "Bluey" as Australia's most successful cultural export, underscoring the global reach and appeal of Australian creative content. The study, which is described as a landmark initiative, provides a comprehensive overview of the sector's economic performance and employment figures.

The "Screen Currency 2026" study employed a detailed methodology to assess the sector's financial output and employment. Gross value added (GVA) is a measure of the contribution to GDP by a sector or industry. The figures presented represent the value of goods and services produced by the screen and games industries, minus the cost of intermediate goods and services used in production. The employment data reflects direct jobs created within these industries, indicating the sector's capacity to provide stable and substantial employment opportunities. The study's findings are crucial for understanding the economic landscape of Australia's creative industries and informing future policy decisions and investment strategies.

Screen Australia, the government agency that commissioned the study, plays a pivotal role in supporting and promoting the Australian screen industry. Its mandate includes funding development and production, marketing Australian content domestically and internationally, and undertaking research to inform industry growth. The "Screen Currency 2026" report is expected to serve as a key reference document for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and investors seeking to understand the current state and future potential of Australia's screen and games sector. The emphasis on "Bluey" as a leading cultural export further illustrates the power of Australian storytelling and animation on the global stage, suggesting significant opportunities for continued international success.

The economic valuation of AUD11.1 billion ($7.9 billion) places the screen and games sector among Australia's significant contributors to national wealth. The direct employment of 68,844 individuals signifies a robust job market within these creative fields. The study's findings are likely to influence discussions around government support, tax incentives, and international co-production agreements, all of which are vital for fostering the continued growth and competitiveness of the Australian screen and games industries. The success of "Bluey" serves as a case study for the potential of Australian intellectual property to achieve widespread international recognition and economic benefit.