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New Film Friendly Guidelines to help industry thrive

Media Releases  27 Feb 2015

Filming in Victoria is about to be simplified, with legislation taking effect to streamline filming approval processes and increase activity in the state’s $1.3 billion screen industry.

The Filming Approval Act 2014 takes effect on Sunday, 1 March, 2015 and requires all Victorian councils and public agencies to adopt standard processes for filming applications and assessing permits on public land.

Changes include the introduction of standard permit application forms, standard response times for filming requests, a single point of contact, and an onus on property managers to make location and permit information readily available to production companies and location scouts.
The changes were developed in consultation with public entities and the screen industry. They will standardise and simplify the process of gaining approval for commercial filming on public land. They will also ensure councils and agencies maintain a balance between meeting the needs of the screen industry and recognising the necessary safeguards to protect public amenity.

Film Victoria has developed the Victorian Film Friendly Guidelines, and a range of other resources, to help Victorian councils and agencies apply the new principles and become more “film friendly”. For more information, visit Film Victoria's Resources page.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley

“This streamlined process sends a message that Victoria is film friendly and ready for local, national and international production companies.”

“When films are made in Victoria, it’s a boost to jobs and the economy and it builds our reputation as a place where creative industries thrive.”

Quotes attributable to Film Victoria CEO Jenni Tosi

“Ease of doing business, supported by useful tools and resources, is key to creating a positive filming experience for production companies when they liaise with councils and agencies to secure the right filming location.”

“Film Victoria looks forward to seeing an increase in production partnerships as a direct result of this new legislation.”