Screen NSW is teaming with PAX Australia to help up to 10 New South Wales-based game developers exhibit their digital games on the PAX Aus 2026 show floor in Melbourne this October.
The annual Market Support Program will provide developers with a grant of $2150 to support booth setup, as well as some accommodation and travel, with the overarching goal of presenting the talent of local NSW developers to a wider Australian audience.
Screen NSW supports local developers – quick links
Who can apply for the Screen NSW Market Support Program
The core goals of Screen NSW Market Support Program are to accelerate the growth of the NSW games sector, enable local companies to gain recognition and attract investment, provide greater visibility for developers, and improve the overall sustainability of the NSW digital games industry.
With this in mind, there is strict criteria for those keen to apply for support to exhibit at PAX Aus.
To be eligible, developers must be a NSW resident of at least 18 years of age, or be part of a NSW-based company with central management within the state. If applying on behalf of a company, there must be ‘no more than 5 full-time equivalent employees at application’.
Applicants must have an ABN, own the necessary rights to any game projects taken to the exhibition, be able to travel to Melbourne and exhibit at PAX Aus 2026 in October, and have a playable game (at least in beta form) ready for showcase.
As for the types of games supported by the grant, Screen NSW has confirmed it will accept applications for games for any platform (including console, desktop, tablet, mobile, VR/AR, multiplayer and single-player games) that are intended for entertainment purposes and are completely digital.
What you can’t submit for the Screen NSW Market Support Program
Screen NSW will not accept any games likely to be rated 18+ or that are likely to be refused classification. It will also not accept games that involve gambling services or unethical pay-to-win or play-to-earn mechanics, along with any unlawful game.
Other exclusions include games considered offensive, including those that contain nudity or drug references; games developed for advertising or corporate marketing; games made for internal training purposes and for curriculum material; and games that are not digital – as in, any board games or hybrid digital and physical games.
How to apply for the Screen NSW Market Support Program
Screen NSW’s Market Support Program is now open for applications.
Applicants will need to submit their proposal through the SmartyGrants portal, with all submissions needing to be in by 2pm AEST 26 May.
Once submitted, applications will be assessed by the Screen NSW program delivery team as well as a representative from PAX Australia. Successful applicants will be informed in the weeks following the program closure.
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Katherine Grace is one of the unsung heroes of Australia’s local games industry. Currently serving as PAX Australia’s Content Manager at RX Global, she helps guide the annual Melbourne show – which brings together all parts of the industry, from commercial to enthusiast – through her expertise, oversight and curation skills.
Grace serves as the bridge for all aspects of the show’s content, from programming and direction through to the invitation of local and international guests. She manages panels, the annual Storytime presentation, meet and greets, community rooms, and so much more.
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