Australia’s screen industry is abuzz with excitement following the recent increase in the country’s Location Offset scheme. The legislation, which was announced in May and officially came into effect on July 1, has raised the rebate for TV and film productions shooting in Australia from 16.5% to an impressive 30%. This significant boost is expected to attract more overseas investment and provide a stable pipeline of work for Australian screen workers and businesses.
An Advocacy for Improvement
For years, Australian TV and film bodies have been advocating for an increase in the rebate to make the country more competitive in the global market. This effort has become even more vital as Australia continues to attract international shoots thanks to generous regional rebate systems in states like Victoria and New South Wales. The recent amendment to the Location Offset is a positive step towards achieving this goal and supporting the growth of the Australian screen sector.
A Boost for International Productions
International production is a central element of the Australian government’s Revive National Cultural Policy, and the increase in the Location Offset is expected to further enhance Australia’s appeal as a filming location. With foreign spend on drama production and post-production reaching record-breaking levels, Australia is solidifying its position as a competitive and attractive destination for major film and TV productions. Titles such as “Anyone But You,” “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire,” and “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” have all contributed to this success.
Australia’s Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, believes that the changes to the Location Offset will benefit the entire Australian screen sector. By encouraging more large-budget productions to film in Australia, local screen workers will have more opportunities to showcase their talents and contribute to the industry’s growth. This increase in production activity will not only create jobs but also boost the country’s overall economy.
Qualifying for the Rebate
To qualify for the increased rebate, Australian production expenditure thresholds have been adjusted, with higher requirements for both film and television series. Productions will also need to meet minimum training obligations, engage with local post-production companies, and provide new reporting to capture essential data. Additionally, the Location Incentive program, which was introduced during the pandemic, has been merged into the new Location Offset, streamlining the process for international productions.
In addition to the Location Offset, Australia also offers a 30% Post, Digital, and Visual Effects (PDV) Offset for international productions that utilize VFX and post-production services in the country. The Producer Offset, another scheme aimed at local productions, provides a 40% rebate and requires productions to pass an Australian cultural test. These comprehensive incentive programs make Australia an attractive destination for both local and international filmmakers seeking to take advantage of the country’s diverse landscapes and skilled workforce.
The increase in Australia’s Location Offset scheme is a significant development for the country’s screen industry. By providing a more competitive rebate and encouraging more international productions to film in Australia, the industry is poised for growth and success. The increased investment and job opportunities will not only benefit Australian screen workers but also contribute to the country’s cultural and economic prosperity.
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