Is NFDC Forging Creative Alliances with Australian Film Institutions?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strategic partnership between NFDC and Australian film institutions.
- Focus on cultural exchange and co-production opportunities.
- Launch of 'India Connect' initiative.
- Plans for the SCREEN FOREVER 2026 conference.
- Emphasis on preserving film heritage through archival collaborations.
Mumbai, Aug 30 (NationPress) The National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC) has formed a partnership with prominent Australian entities, Screen Producers Australia (SPA) and the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA), marking a significant step in cultural and creative collaboration between the Indian and Australian film sectors.
NFDC has executed two Letters of Intent (LOIs) with these Australian organizations. The LOI with Screen Producers Australia highlights a collaborative vision to host a delegation of Indian producers in Australia in 2026 for the SCREEN FOREVER conference on the Gold Coast.
This initiative, dubbed ‘India Connect’, aims to establish a vibrant platform for co-production opportunities, cultural exchanges, and sustainable business partnerships. The program will feature project-matching forums, delegate selection, and organized networking opportunities crafted to enhance creative and commercial collaboration between Indian and Australian producers.
The LOI with the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA) focuses on heritage preservation, knowledge exchange, and archival collaborations, underscoring the significance of protecting cinematic history. This partnership is expected to facilitate mutual learning in film restoration, digitization, and preservation methods, ensuring that future generations can access and celebrate the rich cinematic legacies of both nations.
Commenting on these strategic partnerships, Information & Broadcasting Secretary Shri Sanjay Jaju stated, "These partnerships reinforce NFDC’s dedication to building global bridges for Indian cinema. With Australia, we not only share creative aspirations but also a duty to safeguard and promote our screen cultures. Together, we are excited to cultivate new collaborations that will inspire filmmakers, audiences, and cultural communities across both countries.”
The collaboration is anticipated to commence in late 2025, with activities leading up to Screen Forever 2026 and additional archival initiatives with NFSA.
Moreover, these partnerships will extend to Waves Bazaar, NFDC’s flagship content and co-production market, scheduled to take place alongside the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in November. The collaborations with Screen Producers Australia and NFSA aim to bolster participation at Waves Bazaar.