Film Finance Corporation Australia (FFC)
The Film Finance Corporation Australia (FFC), established in 1988, played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Australian cinema for over two decades. It functioned as a government agency dedicated to investing in and supporting the production of Australian films, television programs, and documentaries. Its mission was to foster a vibrant and sustainable screen industry, contributing to Australian culture and telling Australian stories on both domestic and international stages.
The FFC primarily operated by providing equity investment and loans to production companies. This financial assistance was crucial, particularly for independent filmmakers and smaller production houses that struggled to secure funding from traditional sources like banks or private investors. The FFC’s funding decisions were based on a range of criteria, including the project’s artistic merit, its potential audience appeal, the strength of the creative team, and its projected economic viability. A key consideration was the “Australianness” of the project, ensuring that it reflected Australian culture, themes, and perspectives.
Beyond direct financial investment, the FFC also played a significant role in industry development. It supported initiatives such as script development programs, talent incubators, and market access opportunities for Australian filmmakers. These programs aimed to nurture emerging talent, improve the quality of Australian screen productions, and connect Australian films with international distributors and audiences. The FFC actively promoted Australian cinema at international film festivals and markets, raising the profile of Australian filmmakers and facilitating co-production opportunities.
During its tenure, the FFC invested in a diverse range of projects, spanning various genres and formats. It supported critically acclaimed and commercially successful films like “Shine,” “Muriel’s Wedding,” “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert,” and “Rabbit-Proof Fence.” These films not only achieved box office success but also garnered international recognition, contributing significantly to the reputation of Australian cinema worldwide. The FFC’s investment in television programs and documentaries also proved fruitful, showcasing Australian stories and talent to a broader audience.
In 2008, the FFC was merged with the Australian Film Commission and Film Australia to form Screen Australia. This consolidation aimed to streamline government funding for the screen industry and create a more efficient and coordinated system. Screen Australia inherited the FFC’s legacy of supporting Australian filmmaking and continues to play a vital role in nurturing the Australian screen industry. While the FFC no longer exists as a separate entity, its impact on the Australian film industry remains profound and enduring, having fostered a generation of talented filmmakers and contributed significantly to the richness and diversity of Australian cinema.