Film Vic and ABC announce Drama & Comedy Initiative

Film Victoria has announced a joint Drama and Comedy Initiative with ABC for up to 12 television productions to be shot in Victoria between 2014 and 2016.

The first four projects funded under the 4.5 million package includes previously-announced drama series Glitch, from Matchbox Pictures, comedy series Sammy J & Randy in Rickett’s Lane, written by Sammy J and Heath McIvor and produced by Sticky Pictures, December Media’s The Doctor Blake Mysteries Series 3, and Every Cloud Productions’ Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries Series 3.

Other projects will be announced over the coming months.

Minister for Innovation Louise Asher said the projects are expected to bring up to $67 million in production and create more than 4,000 jobs.

“The initiative provides Victorian production companies with a guaranteed level of project work for writers, directors, cast and crew, with the benefits also flowing on to the Victorian post production sector and numerous small businesses,” she said.

ABC Director of Television Richard Finlayson said, “Its support will greatly assist ABC TV in continuing to bring some of Australia’s favourite series to the screen, as well as launching a host of exciting new programs and supporting Victoria’s reputation as Australia’s home of drama and comedy.”

Film Victoria CEO Jenni Tosi added, “The commitment of the Victorian Government and the ABC to this strategic package highlights the depth of talent and creativity in Victoria, and the capacity of Victorian screen businesses to deliver high-quality television content.”