The projectors will be able to continue to roll at Broken Hill’s Silver City Cinema, once lockdown is lifted, thanks to a $35,000 Federal Government grant.

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said this funding has been allocated as part of the Coalition Government’s $20 million Supporting Cinemas’ Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods (SCREEN) Fund.

“I’m pleased to announce that Silver City Cinema in Broken Hill has been approved for a grant to support its recovery from COVID-19,” Mr Coulton said.

“Silver City Cinema is a local treasure in Broken Hill and, as one of the last remaining cinemas in my electorate, is so important to the social and cultural fabric of the community.

“Independent cinemas have been hit particularly hard by COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns and this funding will enable Silver City Cinema to keep operating once the lockdown is lifted in Broken Hill, providing local families with the opportunity to go out and enjoy a movie in a COVID-safe environment.”

Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said more than $8.7 million had now been allocated for 158 independent cinema sites across the country.

“Independent cinemas play a key role in our communities in Australia, which is why we acted quickly to introduce our $20 million SCREEN Fund,” Minister Fletcher said.

“Through this fund we are already enabling 158 cinemas to keep operating and to provide a popular, low-cost and COVID-safe way for people to go out and enjoy a movie as part of a community – particularly in regional areas.”

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 Australian 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