news flash
2 February 2009
Screenrights distributes $12.7 million to filmmakers in two months
$12.7 million in Screenrights’ royalties has been paid to filmmakers during November and December 2008 – 30% more than the previous highest amount in an equivalent period.
This money was collected for the copying and retransmission of all types of programs – from documentaries to television drama. Many filmmakers received a royalty cheque, which was very welcomed, particularly during this time of economic turmoil.
“Screenrights royalties are a reliable revenue stream that help significantly in demonstrating to potential investors the value of a program and future sales potential. Animax Films is continually in production and development of content, royalties generated by Screenrights assists greatly in the further development of new projects,” says Damien Lay, Managing Director, Animax Films Pty Ltd.
The record distribution pace can be attributed to two factors:
- More Screenrights members are registering their titles in advance and providing all the details needed for the Member Services team to locate their royalties; and
- A new record-matching system was developed which enabled faster analysis of the 139,211 records.
The records showed that educators are embracing new digital video technology such as Clickview, DVC, and e-cast, to give lessons. This ‘on-demand’ learning through digital environments is helping teachers deliver live and recorded broadcast television to students in a new way.
Resource Centres accounted for about half the number of records which returned royalties back to their owners.
A total of $10,507,987 was distributed from the Australian Educational Service; $82,554 from the Australian Government Service; $1,429,236 from the Australian Retransmission Service; $440,795 from the New Zealand Educational Service; and $89,674 (including interest) was distributed by Screenrights International. In addition to this $172,487.60 was distributed from the Australian Educational Service and $6,214.08 was distributed from the New Zealand Educational Service for artistic works used in copied programs.
“Screenrights royalties have become increasingly important in the development of our company. It allows us to undertake additional research and development into new projects which would otherwise be difficult,” said Brian Beaton, Executive Producer, Artemis International.
The $12.7 million also included the first payment of royalties from the 2008 distribution year. Under its Articles of Association, Screenrights has six years in which to pay educational royalties to members. After this, any undistributed money is rolled over into the next year’s pool. Members are encouraged to register their titles and provide all the necessary details to avoid delay in possible royalties down the track.
For Screenrights media enquiries please contact:
Simon Lake, Chief Executive, Screenrights 0413 057 860
Virginia Gordon,
Public Affairs Manager
Mob: 61 - 414 389 551
Tel: 61-2-9904 0133 (Fridays)
Fax 61-2-9904 0498
