Each large film production is a major employer and a massive consumer. A film shoot means jobs for specialised technicians but also many trades and casuals. Then there is hardware, food, transportation, accommodation, security, cleaning and even portable toilets.
How much does a film spend? Off shore projects can spend from $10 to $40 million. Last year feature film and television drama alone spent over $160 million in NSW. The production dollars can contribute significantly to local communities and there is also additional spending “induced” by film production.
Filming can increase positive community identification. Movies are also the world’s most popular form of entertainment. Everyone loves to write, talk about and film the filming. Even an indirect mention of a locality can be a powerful advertisement for a long time after filming is complete.
Australian films and television programs have triggered incredible interest in Australia as a tourism destination. Mick ‘Crocodile’ Dundee put Kakadu on the map as a destination for the world. The Southern Highlands of NSW are experiencing a ‘Babe Boom’.
Australian films have captured the imagination of audiences around the world and we have a reputation as a centre for excellence – it is something Australians do very well. Local Councils can play a key role in attracting films by promoting their unique range of locations and by having an informed, efficient and well-priced system for dealing with film inquiries.
If you need any assistance with a film production or in formulating film policies and marketing for your area, please contact Karen Myers or George Mannix at the New South Wales Film and Television Office telephone (02) 9380 5599.
*Copy supplied by NSW Film and Television Office.
