READY, SET, GO: DIGITAL GAME DEVELOPERS LEVEL UP THEIR SKILLS

• The Crisafulli Government has delivered a pilot program to help game developers level up their skills and to future-proof the industry’s workforce. 
• Queensland’s digital games industry is rapidly expanding, with the Sunshine Coast poised to become a hub for local games development.
• The Season of the Dev pilot program runs from March to May, delivering workshops, networking events and a game jam session.

The Sunshine Coast is poised to become Queensland’s game production powerhouse, with the Crisafulli Government today announcing a new program for emerging developers.

Season of the Dev will help participants upgrade their skills through a series of free and affordable workshops, networking events and a three-day games jam.

The program runs from March to May and targets young adults, at the start of their career, to create a pipeline of skilled workers.

Queensland’s digital games development sector has recorded a 50 per cent growth in employment since 2022, with more than 660 people now in full-time roles.

Minister for the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the Crisafulli Government was committed to supporting the growing sector and creating a pipeline of skilled workers.

“We need to support emerging industries and the games sector is one that’s exciting, innovative and forward-thinking,” Minister Langbroek said.

“My kids used to play Snake on the Nokia and Super Mario on the Gameboy, and it’s incredible to think how far the games industry has come over the past 20 years.  

“The program is aimed at young adults who have grown up on this emerging technology and they’re inspired to take up a career in the sector.

“Developers will learn new skills and network with likeminded creators, and we’ve made sure these events are free and affordable, so no one misses out.

“It’s really exciting to think about the future jobs that will be available and how we can position ourselves to ensure Queensland reaps the economic benefits.”

Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney said she remained committed to supporting emerging games developers, start-ups and studios, with Season of the Dev delivered in partnership with Essential Screen Skills.

“Through Season of the Dev, we are connecting the next generation of creators with experienced industry mentors who will share their knowledge and help put the Sunshine Coast on the map as a new hub for games development,” Ms Feeney said.

Dr Colleen Stieler-Hunt, a game development lecturer at the University of the Sunshine Coast, welcomed the opportunities presented by Season of the Dev.

“These events will provide a fantastic springboard for Sunshine Coast’s emerging games industry and support its continued growth,” Dr Stieler-Hunt said.

“With ultra-fast internet via the region’s submarine broadband cable and a pool of job-ready graduates at UniSC, the Sunshine Coast is an ideal location for game developers and studios looking for lifestyle, talent and technology.”

Season of the Dev adds to Screen Queensland’s successful Digital Games Incentive, Games Grants and early-career Games Residency programs.

In the last three years, Screen Queensland has supported more than 50 titles to be made in Queensland—including the new iteration of the iconic Carmen Sandiego from Gameloft Brisbane, Toast Interactive’s best-seller Max Mustard and the award-winning Bears in Space from Broadside Games.

For more information on the Season of the Dev program check out the Events and Facebook page

Season of the Dev registrations are now open via Screen Queensland’s website: screenqueensland.com.au/games/season-of-the-dev