More than $140,000 in grants have been allocated to two independent cinemas in Hume, as part of the Morrison Government’s $20 million Supporting Cinemas’ Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods (SCREEN) Fund.    

Federal Member for Angus Taylor said the grants would support the recovery of local cinemas from significant declines in revenue due to COVID-19.  

“I’m pleased to announce that Lilac City Cinema in Goulburn and United Cinemas in Narellan have been approved for grants of $60,000 and $85,000 respectively as part of the Morrison Government’s $20 million SCREEN Fund,” Mr Taylor said.  

“This funding will enable them to keep operating during a period of severe disruption, which is so important to the fabric of our community.” 

Administered by Screen Australia, the fund assists independent cinema operators who have experienced significant declines in revenue due to the pandemic, with one-off business continuity grants of up to $85,000.

In recognition of the economic, social and national importance of the cultural and creative sector, the Morrison Government is investing over $1 billion into the arts and creative sector in 2021-22.   

SCREEN Fund applications are open until 24 December 2021 or until total funds are committed. For more information on the SCREEN Fund, visit https://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/funding-and-support/covid-19-support/screen-fund.