Australia, South Africa to make joint films

Australia and South Africa have agreed to promote joint film ventures after their cooperation in sports.

A film co-production treaty was signed between South Africa's arts and culture minister Lulu Xingwana and Australian minister for sport, Youth and Childcare Kate Ellis MP, BuaNews reported.

"Our two countries have long competed and cooperated in the sporting arena and I am delighted to see our connections are expanding in the cultural sphere as well," said Ellis.

The agreement, once approved by each country's parliament, will provide opportunities for filmmakers to pool their creative and financial resources, facilitate cultural and creative exchange between the countries and increase the output of high-quality productions.

The Team that Never Played, a film about apartheid era football players, which has been made under joint venture between Australian and South African producers, will premiere at the opening of the "Africa on Screen and Soccer Film festivals" June 24.