Australian computer game sales top $925 million for 2006

Stan Beer
Thursday, 18 January 2007 11:23

Your IT - Entertainment

The Interactive Entertainment Association of Australia (IEAA) has announced that games industry sales topped $925 million in the 2006 calendar year, a 7% increase on 2005. While software provided the lion's share of revenue, hardware sales were up markedly.

According to statistics compiled by independent market research group, GfK Australia, the increase in sales was driven by a rise in game hardware sales, with an increase of 18% on the previous year to $329 million. 

Still driving overall revenue with more than 64% of total sales, game software sales hit $596 million in 2006, a 1% increase on 2005.  In addition, a record-breaking 12.5 million games were purchased by Australian gamers.

As December sales hit $211 million, Christmas games sales accounted for 23% of total sales for 2006 and grew by 8% compared with 2005.

Compared with 2005, sales of handheld platforms increased by 11% to $210 million and static platform sales rose 7% to $593 million. 

“The introduction of new systems to the market has undoubtedly driven sales with all formats performing really well throughout the year,” said GfK Senior Account Manager, Daniel Morse.

“Sales for 2006 show that Australian gamers are quick to embrace both new technology, as well as current generation systems,” said IEAA CEO, Chris Hanlon.

“2007 will be a considerable year for hardware sales and the Australian interactive games industry will comfortably exceed the $1 billion mark.  To ensure that the industry continues to prosper, we’re keen to attract more skilled staff, as well as access to finance to further develop IP,” said Hanlon.

“Australia is home to 40 game development companies which have produced in excess of 200 game titles.  With more than 1,600 people directly involved, the Australian interactive games industry is an export industry worth more than $110 million,” said Hanlon.