Filming Guide
Filming in Australia is well-supported by federal and state government agencies. Following this step-by-step guide will help you navigate permits, rebates, and on-ground logistics efficiently.
Contact Screen Australia
Begin by reaching out to Screen Australia, the federal government agency overseeing film production support and permits.
- ✓Confirm eligibility for producer offset or location offset rebates
- ✓Review the Producer Offset guidelines
- ✓Understand documentation and co-production requirements
- ✓Register your production project
Screen Australia is the primary authority for federal incentives. State-level film offices (e.g. Screen NSW, Film Victoria) handle location-specific support.
Engage a Local Production Partner
Partnering with an Australian line producer or production services company is strongly recommended to navigate permits, unions, and logistics.
- ✓Location scouting and permit coordination
- ✓Local crew sourcing (MEAA union-compliant)
- ✓Equipment hire and logistics
- ✓On-ground production management
Australia has a mature screen industry with experienced crews across all states. Local knowledge significantly reduces setup time.
Secure Locations & Permits
Once locations are selected, permits must be obtained from the relevant state or local authority.
- ✓Apply through the relevant state screen office or council
- ✓Confirm National Park or heritage site requirements if applicable
- ✓Arrange public liability insurance (mandatory for all permits)
- ✓Submit drone / aerial filming applications separately (CASA regulated)
Lead times vary — city councils may process permits in days, while national parks or defence lands can take several weeks.
Finalise Production Plan
Lock in the full production framework before mobilising crew and equipment.
- ✓Shooting schedule confirmed
- ✓Budget and rebate claims structured
- ✓Crew contracts and visas (if applicable) finalised
- ✓Equipment carnets arranged for imported gear
Begin Production & Claim Rebates
With permits in hand and crew on the ground, production can commence. Rebate documentation should be tracked from day one.
- ✓Maintain qualifying Australian production expenditure (QAPE) records
- ✓Ensure all expenditure receipts align with Screen Australia guidelines
- ✓Submit Location Offset application post-production
- ✓Work with an Australian accountant familiar with screen incentives
The Producer Offset offers up to 40% rebate for feature films; the Location Offset offers 30% for eligible foreign productions spending AUD $15M+.
Requires Additional Approvals
The following production types require additional permits or regulatory approvals beyond a standard location permit:
- ⚠Drone / aerial filming (CASA approval required)
- ⚠Heritage-listed or national park locations
- ⚠Large-scale crowd or stunt sequences
- ⚠Imported equipment (carnet may be required)
- ⚠Child performers (state-specific laws apply)
- ⚠Underwater or marine environment shoots