The Victorian State Government has launched the GameChanger Academy, an innovative educational institution focused on animation, visual effects (VFX), and games, as part of the VicScreen: Victoria’s Screen Industry Strategy 2021-2025.

Colin Brooks, the Minister for Creative Industries, emphasized the need for more skilled digital and screen workers to enhance Australia's global reputation and support local jobs.

The academy aims to equip local creatives with the skills necessary to meet the growing global demand for highly-skilled workers in the screen and games industry.

Run by CG Spectrum and backed by a $3.6 million investment from the State Government and VicScreen, the GameChanger Academy will be based in Melbourne.

The academy will offer a range of bachelor's degrees and post-graduate courses, providing mentorship from industry experts and real-world studio experience.

Student enrolments for the GameChanger Academy will open on October 14, 2024, with the first courses set to commence in February 2025.

Partnerships with local studios, including Framestore, will enhance the curriculum, ensuring students learn using cutting-edge technologies and the latest industry practices.

The GameChanger Academy aims to provide world-leading training for those pursuing careers in the film and games industries.

Victoria boasts the largest digital games workforce in Australia, contributing to major Hollywood projects and highlighting the region's potential in the screen industry.

Industry leaders, including Caroline Pitcher, CEO of VicScreen, stress the importance of industry-informed education to keep pace with advancements in VFX and digital games.

Additionally, the Labor Government has initiated the $5 million Victorian Screen Rebate to further boost local jobs and businesses in the digital screen and VFX sectors.

The strategy behind the GameChanger Academy has already created 29,000 jobs and generated AUD $1.25 billion in economic impact for Victoria.