A sprawling film studio complex being built on a former farm near Perth is poised to transform Western Australia into a major destination for Hollywood productions, with officials touting the project as a game-changer for the state's economy and creative industries.
The Perth Film Studios, located on a 40-hectare site in the suburb of Jandakot, about 20 kilometres south of the city centre, will feature five sound stages, production offices, workshops, and backlot facilities. The project is being developed by a consortium led by local entrepreneur and film producer John Rigg, with backing from the Western Australian government, which has committed $50 million in funding.
From Farm to Film Hub
The site was previously a working farm, but has been rezoned for film industry use. Construction is expected to begin later this year, with the first stages operational by early 2028. The studios aim to attract major Hollywood blockbusters, capitalising on WA's unique landscapes, generous tax incentives, and time zone advantages for international co-productions.
According to the state government, the project will create 1,200 direct jobs during construction and up to 2,500 ongoing positions once fully operational. It is also expected to inject an estimated $1.5 billion into the local economy over the next decade through production spending, tourism, and ancillary services.
Hollywood Interest Already High
Rigg said several major studios have already expressed interest in using the facilities. “We’ve had discussions with Disney, Warner Bros., and Netflix, among others,” he said. “They’re excited about the possibility of shooting in a region that offers not only world-class infrastructure but also stunning natural backdrops—from the outback to pristine beaches.”
Western Australian Premier Roger Cook described the project as a “landmark investment” that would put the state on the global film map. “This is about creating jobs, diversifying our economy, and showcasing WA to the world,” Cook said. “We have the talent, the locations, and now we’ll have the studios to match.”
Tax Incentives and Competition
Western Australia already offers a 10% rebate on eligible production expenditure, with an additional 5% for projects filmed in regional areas. The federal government also provides a 30% location offset, making the combined incentives among the most competitive globally. The studios are expected to leverage these to lure productions away from traditional hubs like Los Angeles, London, and Sydney.
Industry experts note that the move comes as Hollywood seeks to diversify its production locations due to rising costs and capacity constraints in traditional centres. “Perth offers a compelling proposition,” said film economist Dr. Sarah Chen. “The combination of competitive incentives, modern facilities, and unique locations gives it a strong edge.”
Community and Environmental Considerations
The development has not been without controversy. Some local residents have raised concerns about noise, traffic, and environmental impact on the surrounding area. However, the consortium has pledged to implement mitigation measures, including soundproofing, traffic management plans, and the preservation of 10 hectares of native vegetation on the site.
Rigg emphasised the project’s sustainability goals: “We’re aiming for carbon-neutral operations, with solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and waste recycling built into the design.”
Future Expansion Plans
Stage two of the project, scheduled for completion by 2030, will add a backlot with permanent outdoor sets, including a replica of a Wild West town and a Mediterranean village, as well as a film school and accommodation for cast and crew. The consortium is also in talks with streaming services to build dedicated sound stages for long-running series.
With construction set to begin soon, the Perth Film Studios represent a bold bet on the future of film production in Australia. If successful, they could transform not just the local economy but also the way Hollywood thinks about shooting down under.
