Recently, Australia has announced that game developers seeking to immigrate to the country will benefit from a streamlined process, thanks to new skilled migration guidelines.
This update makes Game Design in Australia even more appealing as a location to establish game development studios, reinforcing its status as a destination of choice on the global stage. With a favorable environment and these legislative changes, Australia stands out as one of the primary hubs for professionals and companies in the gaming industry.
The Australian Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL)
The Australian Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL) will be expanded to include twenty-two new occupations, including skills essential for Game Design in Australia and software development, aimed at strengthening the country’s gaming market. For those unfamiliar, the Australian Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List simplifies the entry of professionals into certain fields, allowing them to apply for a visa exempt from pandemic-related travel restrictions.
Additionally, Australia already has a program known as Australian Skilled Migration, which provides a pathway to obtaining a work visa for immigrants based on a list of occupations from the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
Game Design in Australia: Benefits for Industry Companies
This news is extremely positive for industry companies, including independent developers (indie), especially due to Australia’s strong cultural support for the entertainment sector. Considering that both small and large productions often choose Australia as a filming location, this favorable environment also extends to Game Design in Australia.
While in recent years the country has been more restrictive regarding games, it is important to note that age ratings can vary between countries. What is considered suitable for a 16-year-old audience in the US, for example, may be classified as suitable only for those over 18 in Australia. However, this should not be seen as a significant obstacle for the industry. It is crucial to remember that the gaming industry has also faced criticism, particularly regarding issues of abuse of power and inadequate representation, with female characters often being underrepresented or poorly represented.
However, it is important to highlight that these challenges are being recognized and addressed, with the industry seeking greater inclusion and representation in its works.