Victoria’s worldwide reputation for creativity, innovation and excellence has seen screen production reach record heights in the state, with production expenditure surpassing $250 million for the first time.
In 2018/19 Film Victoria’s investment in 70 screen projects generated $251 million for the Victorian economy, trending up over the last five years by 45%, and created 8,347 employment opportunities.
This result represents a return on investment of $12.90 for every dollar Film Victoria committed to the production of 19 feature films, 23 digital games, and 28 television, online and virtual reality projects last financial year.
High-end television drama continues to be a strength with $191 million generated by local projects, including Bloom, Wentworth Season 8, Hungry Ghosts and My Life is Murder, and season 4 of US TV hit Preacher, the largest television production to film in Victoria in more than a decade.
Children’s television also remains strong, with highlights including Little J & Big Cuz and Mustangs FC, which was nominated for an International Emmy Kids Award.
The Dry and True History of the Kelly Gang were two Film Victoria-supported narrative features that made the most of Victoria’s diverse and accessible locations, filming extensively in regional Victoria.
In documentary filmmaking, last year saw an increase in support for projects made for the big screen, including social impact films 2040 and The Australian Dream.
Victoria’s digital games industry continues to grow its reputation as one of the world’s top game production destinations. In 2018/19, investment by Film Victoria in games projects, including Dead Static Drive, Wayward Strand and the global sensation Untitled Goose Game, generated more than $3.9 million for Victoria.
Film Victoria remains firmly focused on creating upskilling opportunities for the next generation of screen practitioners, investing $3.1 million into industry and skills development programs.
Discovering new voices from diverse backgrounds and seeing more women working and leading in the screen industry were also key commitments Film Victoria delivered on in 2018/19. Women comprised 50% of the producers working on Film Victoria-supported film and television productions, while the 50% target for women writers was exceeded at 54%.
Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley said: “Our screen industry is big business for Victoria – as global demand for screen content and ideas grows, we’re proud that our local industry is hitting new heights.”
“The Victorian Government is investing in our screen future and recently announced projects like the new sound stage at Docklands Studios Melbourne are part of our plan to ensure our industry continues to grow and thrive.”
Film Victoria CEO Caroline Pitcher said: “With the knowledge that our local screen industry is invaluable to Victoria’s economy and its cultural and community fabric, we are focused on continuing to implement strategies that develop our talented people and support their screen stories.”