Aussie film crew miss out on offshore feature due to government indecision
MEAA is disappointed that Australian film production crew have lost the opportunity to work on international feature Tomb Raider, which is now set to film in South Africa with a scheduled release in March 2018. The production has reportedly relocated after the federal government failed to confirm an increase to the film location offset to 30% in time to bring the giant film production to Australia.
In recent years, the government has increased the location offset, on an ad hoc basis, to allow films like Ridley Scott’s Alien: Covenant and Thor: Ragnarok to be shot in Australia. It is this continuous work that affords our crew their well-earned reputation for being among the best in the world.
MEAA CEO Paul Murphy said, “MEAA has long called for the location offset to be permanently increased from 16.5% to 30% so that we can attract big-budget international productions to Australia on a regular basis. The loss of Tomb Raider will be felt by the Australian crew and actors who would have worked on the production.
“But despite both sides of politics having backed location offset top-ups before, government inconsistency and delay has, on this occasion, led to Australia losing this film. If a 30% location incentive were locked in, it’s certain we would see more large-scale productions coming to Australia which would provide ongoing opportunities for a new generation of Australian film-makers,” Murphy said.
“Over the last couple of years we’ve re-built our reputation as one of the best places to make film in the world. Our crews and casts have been given the opportunity to shine, culminating in recognition at this year’s Academy Awards. The offset top-ups, along with the lower dollar, have driven that momentum.
“Australia must have a sustainable film industry, with internationally competitive tax incentives, if our crew are to build and sustain their skills and expertise, and showcase them to the world,” he said.
For media enquiries contact: Lauren Katsikitis 0422 758 932
Aussie film crew miss out on offshore feature due to government indecision
Last update: September 3, 2016
