The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), currently underway in Panjim, Goa, has become the stage for a historic milestone in global cinema collaborations. In a major development, India and Australia have officially signed a three-year film partnership, marking one of the most significant cross-cultural alliances between the two nations’ screen industries. The initiative was spearheaded by the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), which led a powerful and diverse Australian delegation to IFFI 2025.
The announcement signals a new era of creative, institutional, and industrial collaboration, further deepening the cultural relationship shared by both countries.
Three Major MOUs Signed to Strengthen Indo–Australian Collaboration
At the landmark event, three Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) were signed in the presence of:
- Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece
- Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B), India
- Members of the Indian and Australian film community
- Representatives of IFFM and other screen institutions
These MOUs aim to establish long-term frameworks for cooperation across film production, distribution, education, talent exchange, and festival partnerships.
The partnership is designed to build easier creative pathways for filmmakers, students, and producers, promoting smoother collaboration on co-productions, joint training programs, screenings, and academic tie-ups.
A Strong Push for Cultural Diplomacy Through Cinema
Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece highlighted the growing relationship between the two nations, emphasizing how the Indian diaspora has shaped Australia’s entertainment landscape.
Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece said:
“Australia has one of the biggest Indian diasporas in the world, fuelling the growth of the local Indian film sector. More Australians than ever are embracing Indian cinema and all its colour, passion and energy. This agreement will strengthen the relationship between India and Melbourne, creating more local jobs, more films and more global exposure in the Indian film industry.”
With Indian cinema enjoying increased popularity across Australia, this collaboration aims to amplify mutual growth.
IFFM’s Pivotal Role in Strengthening the Bridge Between Nations
Mitu Bhowmick Lange, Festival Director of IFFM and Founder of Mind Blowing Films, expressed her pride in bringing the initiative to life.
She said:
“India and Australia have enjoyed a long and meaningful cultural connection, but what we are witnessing now is a truly transformative moment for our screen industries. These partnerships reflect a shared commitment to collaboration, exchange and long-term creative growth.”
She highlighted that these agreements would open doors for:
- Expanded festival linkages
- Academic and training partnerships
- Increased distribution opportunities
- Student and filmmaker exchanges
- Co-production possibilities
Lange emphasized that this is the strongest and most holistic framework ever established between the two film industries.
A Three-Year Partnership Designed for Long-Term Growth
Described as one of the most ambitious India–Australia cinema initiatives to date, the agreement aims to create a vibrant, interconnected screen ecosystem. Over the next three years, both nations will collaborate on:
- Shared festival programming
- International co-productions
- Screenings and talent development programs
- Industry networking platforms
- Educational linkages between film schools and universities
The partnership also aligns with India’s growing role as a global content hub and Australia’s expanding multicultural entertainment landscape.
A New Era for Cross-Border Storytelling
With IFFM taking the lead in assembling the delegation, the collaboration marks a milestone in cultural diplomacy through cinema. This partnership is expected to generate fresh opportunities for producers, writers, directors, and emerging talent from both countries.
By building a foundation that blends creativity, commerce, and cultural exchange, India and Australia are set to shape a new chapter in global filmmaking—one that celebrates diversity, innovation, and shared storytelling.
