AEDA and Game Plus partner to boost gaming sector diversity
Adelaide Economic Development Agency (AEDA) and game development co-working space Game Plus are breaking barriers through a new support program designed to attract diverse developers to the gaming sector.
AEDA is partnering with Pirie Street-based Game Plus, a collaborative co-working space for game developers and other related specialist technology start-ups, through the Game Plus Support Program (GPS).
AEDA is committed to attracting and engaging more workers to the city, and supporting the State Government build hi-tech growth sectors, including visual effects and gaming.
The initiative supports people who are not typically represented in the gaming world — including women, people of Aboriginal heritage, rural residents, and individuals in disadvantaged and LGBTQIA+ communities — giving them an opportunity to engage in an exciting program and foster inclusion in the in-demand tech area.
GPS Program recipients will receive a place in the Game Plus co-working space, marketing support, and strong industry guidance to further enhance ideas, skills, and talent to create a viable business.
Game Plus member Katie Abela (left) and Game Plus Adelaide Community Manager Aiden Gyory (right).
Game Plus Team Leader Jarrod Farquhar-Nicol says it is an exciting time for game development, and the program will unlock learning and business development opportunities.
“We are keen to help folks who are underrepresented in the industry find their way into this wonderful, collaborative community, when they might not otherwise have that chance,” Mr Farquhar-Nicol says.
“With the help of AEDA, Game Plus will connect members of the GPS Program with the people, resources, and opportunities they need to truly prosper. We can’t wait to meet the first round of applicants.”
The GPS program provides an avenue for people working in games adjacent industries to break into the gaming industry.
The program is open to early career practitioners, as well as people interested in visual effects (VFX), screen, augmented reality, virtual reality and graphic design.
Game Plus member Katie Abela looks forward to welcoming more gamers through the program.
“Game Plus has provided my team and I a great working space to develop our games and even release our first game, Frontier Quest, as well as allowed us to meet some great people who work in the industry,” Miss Abela says.
Game Plus member Katie Abela at the Game Plus Adelaide working space.
AEDA Managing Director Ian Hill says many successful gaming companies had their start in the city, including Australia’s largest developer Mighty Kingdom, and looks forward to the program’s impact on the sector.
“The gaming industry is important in today’s economic landscape, with many people hoping to make a break into the industry,” Mr Hill says.
“We are proud this program is all-inclusive, and we look forward to seeing a diverse range of applicants break into the gaming world.”
The first round of applications closes on 31 August 2022, with the first recipients starting placements in September 2022.
Game Plus is a collaborative, not-for-profit workspace for game developers and technology start-ups, established to support independent studios.
For more information visit: www.gameplus.com.au/gps