Australia scores two big films with sequels to Prometheus and Thor

The Australian government is spending nearly AU$50m in filming incentives to bring the two movies to the country, but between them they’re expected to deliver around AU$300m through inward investment.

“Australia’s creative industries are well placed to take advantage of a growing global economy and I have been actively promoting Australia for the production of major international films,” said Julie Bishop MP, minister for foreign affairs.

“Our high-quality facilities, leading industry experts, outstanding creative talent and diverse landscapes have given us an exceptional reputation as a world-class destination.”

Australia’s international production profile has had a boost in the last couple of years as the exchange rate has become more favourable and more money has been freed up for incentives. Big-budget Hollywood films have included Second World War drama Unbroken, disaster movie San Andreas and Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean 5.

The Australian government remains under pressure from its production industry to increase its 16.5% Location Offset filming incentive. However, a separate system offering larger one-off payments to the biggest productions, in addition to the offset, has proved a success.

For more on filming in Australia, see our production guide.