NSW BUDGET: NSW STRIKES BACK WITH NEW HOPE FOR SCREEN INDUSTRY

The NSW Government has launched a bold new push to steal Hollywood blockbusters and cult television series from interstate and overseas, backed by a new $20 million fund to boost entertainment jobs and the state’s economy.

Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts Troy Grant said the NSW Government has its sights firmly set on attracting film and TV productions to our cities and regional towns, under the new Made in NSW fund.

“Our great state is already home to hit Aussie TV shows like Rake, A Place to Call Home and Love Child and recently accommodated big-budget international films like Mad Max: Fury Road andAlien: Covenant,’’ Mr Grant said.

“Now I’m putting other states and countries on notice that we’re going after their productions – who knows, NSW could host the next Star Wars blockbuster or Game of Thrones series, or we could steal Offspring from the Victorians.

“We’ve got gorgeous and unique locations, extraordinarily talented local actors, directors and producers, and world-class post-production companies.

“My message is clear – you should come here because NSW is simply the best state to make film and television, and we are putting our money where our mouth is.

Made in NSW will double existing NSW Government funding for the screen industry, to almost $40 million over the next two years. The fund will be managed by Screen NSW and used to attract international film and television and support major Australian TV drama.

Treasurer Gladys Berejiklian said the $20 million funding will be included in the June 21 NSW Budget.

“More film productions in NSW will mean more jobs and investment across our great State,” Ms Berejiklian.

“NSW is a world-class destination for film and television production and this funding will help us attract even more productions to our State.”