Australian film stars appeal for help

CANBERRA - Hollywood actress Cate Blanchett is leading a campaign to protect Australia's film and television industry from proposed government budget cuts.

Melbourne-born Blanchett joined other Australian actors including Rose Byrne and Richard Roxburgh, and directors Gillian Armstrong and Peter Weir, in signing an open letter to the government, appealing for help in preserving opportunities for local film and TV creators.

Tuesday's open letter was delivered to the federal government during the final parliamentary sitting week before the budget is handed down in May.