Australia’s next generation of game developers has just been revealed through the Smart Program 2025 – a 90-day accelerator designed to sharpen skills, build networks, and prepare emerging creators for careers in one of the country’s fastest-growing creative industries. Backed by the City of Melbourne and the City of Port Phillip, the program has become a cornerstone of Victoria’s games ecosystem, producing graduates who have gone on to shape the local and international scene.
Let’s break down what this year’s program means for the sector – and meet the talented developers leading the charge.
Why the Smart Program Matters
The Smart Program isn’t just training – it’s a launchpad. Over 90 days, participants gain access to professional coaching, mentorship from established developers, and networking opportunities that often lead directly to career advancement.
For Melbourne, recognised as Australia’s game development capital, the program demonstrates the city’s commitment to nurturing creativity and innovation. According to Andrew Rowse, Portfolio Head for Innovation and Education at the City of Melbourne:
“Melbourne is Australia’s game-development capital, so we’re excited and proud to back the industry’s next generation of talent.”
Program Highlights
| Feature | Impact |
|---|---|
| 90-day intensive program | Builds real-world, job-ready skills |
| Professional training | Helps participants develop technical and creative expertise |
| Mentorship | Guidance from industry veterans |
| Networking opportunities | Direct access to publishers, studios, and investors |
| Local government support | Funding and stability for long-term industry growth |
Insider Tip: Programs like Smart are vital not just for individual careers, but for creating a stronger ecosystem that attracts investment and international collaboration.
Meet the 2025 Smart Program Cohort
This year’s cohort features a diverse group of programmers, artists, designers, and producers – all bringing unique perspectives to their projects. Here’s who to keep an eye on:
| Name | Background | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Nadinda Rachmat | Programmer, educator, and technical artist | Human-centred design & immersive worlds |
| Jediah Van Niel | Co-founder & Art Director of Voyager Studios | Fantasy pet simulator for mobile |
| Noemi Grigorean | Polish freelance artist | Concept art, 3D modelling, world-building |
| Kora Lee | Designer, animator, illustrator | Storytelling & interdisciplinary collaboration |
| Bora Erdogan | Designer, programmer, technical artist | Experimental games with emotional impact |
| Jay Arbuthnot | Producer & accessibility consultant | Equity-driven design & community building |
Insider Tip: Take note of how varied these backgrounds are – ranging from axe-throwing producers to world-building illustrators.
Alumni Impact: A Proven Launchpad
The Smart Program already has a track record of shaping successful careers. Past participant Natalie Raskin, now Director of GamesPond, credits the program with accelerating her path:
“Through the Smart Program’s career coaching sessions and the time spent learning alongside other aspiring game developers, I’ve been able to build a much stronger support network and better determine where I am able to make the most impact in our industry.”
For this year’s participants, the program promises not just growth but the chance to forge meaningful connections in Melbourne’s thriving dev community.
Alumni Outcomes
| Benefit | Example |
|---|---|
| Career growth | Alumni moving into leadership positions |
| Network expansion | Direct industry contacts built through mentoring |
| Skill development | From technical tools to soft skills like collaboration |
| Showcase opportunities | Increased visibility at local & global events |
| Community leadership | Alumni often return as mentors themselves |
Insider Tip: This interdisciplinary mix of alumni is exactly what gives Australia’s game scene its edge.
Final Thoughts
The Smart Program 2025 is more than an accelerator – it’s a statement of intent. By investing in emerging talent, Melbourne is ensuring its status as the beating heart of Australia’s game development industry. With participants from diverse creative and technical backgrounds, this year’s cohort is set to make waves both locally and globally.
For developers, fans, and industry watchers, keeping tabs on these rising stars isn’t optional – it’s essential. The games they’ll create tomorrow begin with the mentorship, collaboration, and community they’re building today.
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