Crean announces new funding to bring in international films
A funding increase of $20 million has been given to Ausfilm to encourage international filmmakers, bringing the on-location offset in line with the post and digital and visual effects offset.
The money, which was announced by Federal Arts Minister Simon Crean, will be used for Australia’s National Cultural Policy location offset to make Australia more desirable to international filmmakers.
Both the post and digital and visual effects and location offset are now offset 30% by the Federal Government.
Ausfilm CEO Deb Richards said the offsets would provide employment, skills and development training, infrastructure renewal, and economy support.
Fairly certain the location offset was not raised. $20 million was pledged to help attract international productions but the offset itself will remain at 16.5% for now. Simon Crean mentioned the $20 million would be a precursor to the offset being raised but it officially has not been raised to 30%
Crean seems to think that rent seeking from Hollywood is good for our business. Sorry Simon but these guys will disappear in a flash if they can get more government subsidy from another nation. It is short term and stupid politics.
True Harry, but surely the ‘multiplier effect’ of that $20m will provide some much needed labour and income for local talent. But if you prefer your plan of sitting on your hands and doing nothing, please explain its benefits.