Australian filmmakers explore opportunities in China

AUSTRALIAN film production capability has been showcased in China during a delegation visit to discuss opportunities for joint projects.

The mission in mid-June to Beijing and Shanghai aimed to generate sales for Australian filmmakers, identify leads for potential TV and film projects to bring to Australia and influence the development of early stage projects through partnerships and co-productions.

This follows the Australian Government’s recent announcement of a $140 million Location Incentive by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, to "attract more international blockbusters" for production in Australia, helping to grow the local industry.

"The incentive, delivered over four years, is estimated to bring in over $260 million per year in new foreign investment to the Australian economy and create more than 3,000 jobs annually for our talented cast and crew," Trade Minister Steve Ciobo said.

"Australia’s screen production industry is recognised globally for its creativity, experienced production companies and sophisticated film making infrastructure," he said. "As a film location, Australia offers a wide variety of talent, scenic locations and quality studio facilities, all supported by government incentives.

"China produces hundreds of feature films each year, has tens of thousands of cinemas and television audiences of hundreds of millions, therefore Australia’s official co-production agreement provides great opportunities for our highly skilled film industry."

The Australia-China Film Industry Exchange, organised by Screen Australia and Ausfilm in partnership with Austrade, featured a series of business roundtables and networking opportunities to strengthen engagement between Australian and Chinese film makers.