An exhibition on Australian films kicked off on Sunday with the Asian premiere of independent director Annika Glac's debut feature film "Belladonna" at the ongoing 12th Shanghai International Film Festival.

Chinese audiences are familiar with Australian film stars such as Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman and Heath Ledger, but may not know as much about Australian-made films. Those involved in the Australian film industry are now hoping to make head towards the Chinese market.

From L to R, Australian Consul-General in Shanghai, Tom Connor, Deputy Consul-General Dene Yeaman and Australian filmmakers Annika Glac and Marcus Struzina attend a press conference in Shanghai on June 14, 2009. [CRIENGLISH.com]

An exhibition on Australian films kicked off on Sunday with the Asian premiere of independent director Annika Glac's debut feature film "Belladonna" at the ongoing 12th Shanghai International Film Festival.

With the assistance of Screen Australia, the government agency for the promotion of film and television, six films are scheduled to be screened during the festival. Other films include director Steve Jacob's award-winning "Disgrace", thrillers "Crush" and "Fragment", "Beautiful", and the coming-of-age movie "Playing for Charlie".

"The Australian film has a long history. The earliest film in the world was an Australian production in 1906," said Tom Connor, the Australian Consul-General in Shanghai, "I hope you will see more Australian films in the future."

"According to my knowledge, this is the first time that we have had an Australian film exhibition at the festival," said Tang Lijun, the SIFF managing director.

"In recent years, China and Australia have enhanced co-operation and communication with regards to film and television," Tang said, "Our premier Wen Jiabao has even signed an agreement with the Australian Prime Minister to enhance film cooperation."

According to Tang, several Chinese-Australian joint projects will be announced during the festival.