Western Australia’s ambition to attract large-scale national and international screen productions has taken a step forward with the practical completion of the Perth Film Studios, a $290.5 million project designed to anchor the State’s creative industries growth.
The facility has been delivered following almost $300 million in total investment, including $233.5 million in construction and a further $57 million allocated to management and operations over the first decade through an agreement with Perth-based company Home Fire. The project was completed on time and on budget, aligning with the State Government’s broader plan to diversify the economy, attract investment and create local jobs.
Premier Roger Cook said the studios would play a central role in positioning Western Australia as a competitive screen destination. “Perth Film Studios represents the cornerstone of my government’s goal to establish our State as a major creative centre for international and national film, television and digital media production,” he said. With the complex now complete, he added that “we are helping to diversify the economy, create local jobs and unlock new opportunities for talent and innovation in our State.” Describing the development as world class, Mr Cook said he looked forward to seeing it host productions as “we begin a new era for the WA screen industry”.
The purpose-built studios include four sound stages spanning 90,000 square feet, with 40-metre clear spans providing more than 8,200 square metres of production space. The site also features two annexes, workshops for set and prop construction, and a 23,200 square metre backlot, described as the largest in the southern hemisphere. Office and administration facilities cover 8,500 square metres and include production offices, staff amenities, hair, makeup and costume facilities, as well as a theatre screening room.
Construction materials and works were heavily sourced locally, including more than 1,670 tonnes of locally manufactured steel and 160,000 cubic metres of sand used to level the site.
Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk said the studios would expand opportunities across the sector. “Our WA screen production industry continues to achieve success, and the construction of Perth Film Studios will expand the industry and create real opportunities for our talented creative professionals in WA,” she said. Ms McGurk said the facility would “provide real career pathways, provide work and training for actors, camera operators, costume and set designers, sound and lighting technicians, video editors, makeup artists and many other roles”. Calling it an exciting period for the sector, she said she looked forward to “seeing the economic benefits of our continued investment in everything our creatives have to offer”.
Public artworks by Aboriginal artists Lea Taylor and Buffie Punch have also been unveiled at the site, including an entry statement and yarning circle reflecting local culture and Country, with motifs inspired by Mia Mia shelters, water, fire and the native banksia leaf.
West Swan MLA Rita Saffioti said the project would deliver local benefits as Perth’s north-east corridor continues to grow. “Major projects like the Perth Film Studios create great local job opportunities for our community,” she said. Looking ahead, she said the studios were expected to play a role in attracting larger productions to the State. “Over the next decade, we want the Perth Film Studios to help diversify our State’s economy by attracting a greater number and scale of productions to WA, building on our strong history of location-based and regional filming.”
The studios form a key part of the Western Australian Screen Industry Strategy, with the State Government banking on the facility to strengthen local capability and draw sustained production activity to Western Australia in the years ahead.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
