Make It in New South Wales

Screen Producers Australia (SPA) is the industry body that represents Australian independent film and television producers. 

Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) is the union which covers workers in the media, entertainment, sports and arts industries in Australia. 

Both SPA and MEAA can offer advice on issues affecting the business and creative aspects of screen production including information on conditions of employment, and requirements for importing cast and crew. 

By law, all production companies require an Occupational Health and Safety Policy, Workers Compensation insurance and Public Liability insurance.

Stringent safety requirements apply to the screen industry, particularly for special effects, stunts, firearms and weapons. Only appropriately qualified people are permitted to operate in these fields.

Filmmakers must be able to satisfy the relevant location authority that they hold all necessary licences and permits for their proposed filming activities.

Filmmakers should expect to provide public liability cover for $20 million in most cases. More cover may be required for significantly higher risk projects.

NSW has a history of excellence in providing production services to a diverse range of projects.

With an impressive pool of talented and award-winning directors, actors, designers, artists, casting agents, stunt operators and technicians, NSW crews and creatives can handle production requirements of any scale and budget.

The ATA Carnet is an international customs document that permits duty-free and tax-free importation of goods such as camera equipment, props or vehicles for up to one year into Australia.

It is strongly recommended that productions engage a local production services company who can assist with the importation into Australia and other production requirements.

An ATA Carnet may be applied for through the national guaranteeing association in the country of origin of the goods, including the United States Council for International Business, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the London Chamber of Commerce.

Contact the Australian Business Chamber for information on exporting equipment out of NSW under Carnet.

If you plan to employ a child under the age of 15 in entertainment, exhibition, still photography or door-to-door sales, or a child under the age of 16 for any type of modelling, you must provide 7 days' notice to the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian.

Employers of children must have a valid Authority to Employ Children in NSW. They must comply with the Code of Practice. The regulation protects the safety and wellbeing of children who are employed as actors, performers and models in NSW.

Contact the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian early in your planning as they will provide important information about legislation affecting your script, casting and budget.