Virtual Print Fee Program

In 2013, ICA worked with Cinedigm Digital Cinema Australia to enable independent cinemas to transition to full digital technology via the Virtual Print Fee (VPF) Program.

For many exhibitors the cost of transitioning from 35mm film to digital projection systems was prohibitive; the VPF Program was designed to assist with costs. For every booking, where previously a new or rejuvenated print would have been required, the studios agreed to commit some of the cost savings to subsidising digital projectors.

Anyone who hired a digital cinema projection system at a participating cinema was asked to pay a VPF to help support Australian and New Zealand cinemas cover the cost of conversion to digital projection.

The VPF program operated for major chains and independent cinemas in Australia and New Zealand alongside many similar arrangements around the world.

VPF payments were used to support digital conversions and to provide remote helpdesk monitoring, logistics, guarantee compliance, training and administration for around 600 independent screens to ensure high standards of digital projection across Australia’s independent cinema sector.