In 2025, Australia's film industry is experiencing a dynamic surge, attracting high-profile international productions and fostering local talent. This growth is bolstered by competitive tax incentives and a supportive infrastructure that make Australia an appealing destination for both local and international film production.
One notable production is the remake of the 1997 cult classic Anaconda, starring Paul Rudd and Jack Black. Filming is underway in the sunny Gold Coast, Queensland, with the state's lush Hinterland landscapes standing in for the Amazon rainforest. Secured through Screen Queensland's Production Attraction Strategy, this project is expected to inject $40 million into the local economy and create over 300 jobs.
Futher south, Victoria continues to be a hub for major film projects. Liam Neeson is set to star in The Mongoose, marking his third film in the region over the past four years. The production will utilise various locations across Victoria, including the Melbourne Screen Hub in Footscray, contributing significantly to the local economy and providing numerous job opportunities.
Also in Melbourne, Sarah Snook leads the U.S. television thriller All Her Fault, with filming taking place at Docklands Studios and various metropolitan locations. The series showcases Melbourne's versatility in doubling for international cities, highlighting the city's world-class facilities and skilled workforce.
Not as frequently mentioned in the film press, even Western Australia is set to be in the spotlight this year, with the third season of the acclaimed courtroom drama The Twelve, starring Sam Neill, staged in the state. Production is centered around the Margaret River region and Perth's outskirts, expected to boost the local economy by $10 million and create over 650 jobs, further solidifying the state's growing reputation in the film industry.
South Australia hosts the third season of the award-winning, local TV drama RFDS,about the titular Royal Flying Doctor's Service, with filming locations including the Flinders Ranges, Port Augusta RFDS Base, and Adelaide Studios. This production is anticipated to generate 450 local jobs and inject over $10 million into the state's economy, underscoring the region's appeal for television production.
Clearly, Australia's attractiveness to filmmakers is significantly enhanced by its tax incentives - and at this stage by a relatively weak Aussie dollar against the US greenback. The federal government's Location Offset offers a 30% rebate for large-budget film and television projects shot in Australia, providing substantial savings for international productions. Additionally, the Producer Offset grants a 40% rebate on eligible feature films and 30% on other qualifying formats for productions with significant Australian content, encouraging local storytelling and investment. These federal incentives can be combined with state and territory rebates, further enhancing Australia's appeal as a filming destination.
The combination of diverse locations, state-of-the-art facilities, skilled professionals, and generous tax incentives positions Australia as a premier destination for film and television production in 2025. This thriving environment not only attracts international projects but also nurtures local talent, contributing to a vibrant and sustainable film industry. Here's to a bumper 2025!
