Media Alert: IGEA and GDAA

After many years of working collaboratively and productively together, the Game Developers Association of Australia (GDAA) and the Interactive Games and Entertainment Association (IGEA) have decided to combine their respective forces and specialities to work under the banner of a single association. In the coming weeks the GDAA will be bringing to its members a vote for their approval of full acquisition of the association by IGEA.

“This is a vision our respective Boards have shared for some time and we are thrilled to be formalising our working arrangement.” says Edward Fong, Chair of IGEA and Managing Director of Ubisoft, Australia and New Zealand.  “The advocacy, lobbying and stakeholder engagement tasks for both associations are many and varied and IGEA’s Board and our members believe that together, we will be stronger and deliver greater value to our industry members.”

Daniel Visser, Chair of the GDAA Board and Managing Director of Wicked Witch Software says, “The Australian game development industry has moved beyond the rebuild phase that was required post the GFC and into a phase of maturity, consolidation and growth.  The industry and community are in a good place, recognised and admired internationally, and ready for the next phase of expansion.  It makes sense to formally combine our respective efforts and unite to build a sustainable and vibrant industry operating in the world’s most popular entertainment medium.”

“This is an incredibly exciting time for the members of GDAA, IGEA and the wider video games industry. While our individual skills, programs and strengths will blend seamlessly together, it’s our shared passion for the industry that will cement this partnership” said Ron Curry, CEO of IGEA.

He further added, “We expect no material changes in the day to day operations of each association, nor work to halt on the broader issues affecting the industry as we enter this transition phase. The existing GDAA and IGEA teams will come together to ensure no major plans or projects are disrupted and, in fact, we expect resources to increase as we deliver key events and programs for the industry.  Our teams are hitting the ground running and 2020 is going to be fantastic.”

For media inquiries, please contact raelene@igea.net