Aussie, NZ producers forge co-production ties.

Australian and New Zealand producers will pursue greater co-production opportunities, following an agreement between Screen Producers Australia and the Screen Production and Development Association of New Zealand.

Both associations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to facilitate the sharing of information between SPA and SPADA members.

The Memorandum follows a recent upsurge in upcoming co-productions including Prospero Productions & Libertine Pictures’ Wild Survivor, Goalpost & Pukeko Pictures’ Project CM, and South Pacific Pictures & Seven Productions for the Seven Network Australia’s 800 Words.

Matthew Deaner, Executive Director, SPA: “Our growing relationship with SPADA represents our continued focus on international production partners, and equally, the need to focus on nurturing the regional skills base. In the spirit of this agreement, we will work together to further foster close networks between the Australian and New Zealand screen industry. We are natural partners, sharing strong storytelling traditions and rich screen cultures.”

Sandy Gildea, Executive Director, SPADA: “Already, a great deal of business is being done between New Zealand and Australian producers and production companies, which is highlighted by the calibre of the New Zealand producer delegation attending the International Partnership Market at this year’s Screen Forever Conference. It’s vitally important that the independent production sector continues to build and strengthen existing international relationships, and we look forward to creating many future co-production opportunities with our Australian counterparts.”

New Zealand-made content qualifies as Australian content under the Australia-NZ Economic Trade Agreement.