South Australian Film Shines Bright Amidst National Spending Disparity
Adelaide, SA – South Australia's film industry celebrated a stellar showing at the 2026 AACTA Awards, with local talent and productions garnering significant national recognition. Filmmakers Danny and Michael Philippou, known as the RackaRacka brothers, clinched ten awards, including the prestigious Best Film for their movie "Bring Her Back." Another locally produced feature, "Lesbian Space Princess," was honored with Best Indie Film, and acclaimed SA actor Sarah Snook received the Trailblazer Award.
Despite these high-profile accolades, a recent report from Screen Australia reveals a concerning imbalance in drama production spending across the nation, with South Australia trailing significantly.
While the national drama production expenditure hit a record $2.7 billion in 2024/25, a 43 percent increase from the previous year, South Australia's share remained strikingly low.
Eastern States Dominate Production Spending
The surge in national expenditure, largely fueled by international productions, is concentrated in the eastern states. Queensland led with $935 million, followed by New South Wales at $832 million, and Victoria with $731 million.
In stark contrast, South Australia's expenditure was $94 million, a decrease from $96 million in the prior period. This figure represents a mere three percent of the total national spend, highlighting a significant disparity.
Infrastructure and Incentives Hold SA Back
The limited spending in South Australia is attributed to a critical shortage of production infrastructure. The state currently possesses only two sound stages at the South Australian Film Corporation hub, along with a scarcity of sizeable studios and experienced crews.
Federal offsets are proving highly effective in attracting major international productions to Australia, with a record $1 billion spent on 20 international features. However, SA's state-level tax incentives are less competitive compared to its eastern counterparts. South Australia offers a 10 percent production or post-production grant and a payroll tax exemption. Queensland, for example, provides a 15 percent post-production incentive and additional specific grants for regional production.
Filmmakers Warn of 'Brain Drain' and Support Gaps
Australian film producer Craig McMahon highlighted the logistical advantages of filming in Adelaide, but also voiced concerns about a potential 'brain drain' of talented filmmakers. He noted that many local professionals are moving interstate due to a lack of consistent work opportunities. McMahon emphasized that attracting larger-scale productions is crucial for upskilling local crews and building a comprehensive industry ecosystem, extending beyond just stage space.
"International productions would not consider South Australia due to insufficient support and studio space," McMahon stated, underscoring the severe limitations faced by the state.
State Government Vows Continued Investment Amidst Growth
Outgoing Arts Minister Andrea Michaels affirmed the state government's unwavering commitment to the screen industry. She cited investments exceeding $12.4 million in partnership with ABC for Australian television productions. The Minister also highlighted success in attracting major international blockbusters like Netflix's "Territory" and "Thou Shalt Not Steal." Netflix's "My Brilliant Career" is projected to inject a substantial $17 million into the state's economy.
Michaels acknowledged a 27 percent increase in SA film expenditure last year, largely driven by demand from streaming services. She expressed the state's openness to further opportunities for industry growth and development.