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‘Made in NSW” fund hopes to poach TV productions

Game of Thrones in Dubbo? Offspring in Cronulla? NSW Deputy Premier has a vision.

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The NSW government is doubling funding for production in New South Wales, from $20m to almost $40m over the next two years in a bid to boost production.

The ‘Made in NSW’ fund is for local TV drama and to attract international film and TV production, administered through Screen NSW.

Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts Troy Grant said, “Our great state is already home to hit Aussie TV shows like Rake, A Place to Call Home and Love Child and recently accommodated big-budget international films like Mad Max: Fury Road and Alien: Covenant.

“Now I’m putting other states and countries on notice that we’re going after their productions – who knows, NSW could host the next Star Wars blockbuster or Game of Thrones series, or we could steal Offspring from the Victorians.

“We’ve got gorgeous and unique locations, extraordinarily talented local actors, directors and producers, and world-class post-production companies.

“My message is clear – you should come here because NSW is simply the best state to make film and television, and we are putting our money where our mouth is.

Screen Producers Australia CEO, Matthew Deaner said, “This fund is an emphatic vote of confidence in what is a substantial creative and commercial contribution made by the screen industry to NSW. By doubling its support, the NSW Government is empowering the production community to make big and bold screen stories that leverage greater investment and create jobs.

“Australian television drama carries the nation’s dialogue, it is both successful at home and abroad, delivering a wealth of opportunities for careers, economic returns and great viewing.

“We thank the Deputy Premier for his generous and ongoing engagement with the production community, taking the time to understand the challenges and opportunities for growth for local production businesses based in NSW.

“This engagement reinforces a strong industry and government partnership. We look forward to working with Screen NSW to drive a meaningful increase in the production of great Australian television drama through this fund for the benefit of the state, the nation and the world.”

Last week Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announced HBO drama The Leftovers would film at Docklands.

4 Responses

  1. I’d like too see other city locations used other than Melbourne & Sydney, they’ve been done to death. There needs to be not only diversity casting on productions but in the locations as well.

    1. I agree. There have been shows made in rural locations in both Vic & NSW, but it would be nice to see other states as well. Inner city Melbourne in particular has been done to death. Even the suburbs where most Melburnians live are rarely depicted.

  2. This is really good news. But there is an issue here. Screen NSW production investment is reported publicly and is equity investment which the government recoups. But the international productions are deals done behind closed doors with NSW trade and investment officials, are essentially gifted grants and there is no public disclosure. Transparency does not appear to be high on the list for the NSW government.

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