Western Australia is now one step closer to becoming a top national and international screen production hub with the practical completion of Perth Film Studios.
The almost $300 million facility represents the centrepiece of the state government’s investment in the creative industries, combining $233.5 million in construction and a further $57 million to support management and operations over the first 10 years through a partnership with Perth-based company Home Fire.
Located in the state’s north-east corridor, the state-of-the-art complex has been delivered on time and on budget, reinforcing the government’s vision to grow the screen sector, diversify the economy, and create local jobs.
WA Premier Roger Cook said the completion of the studios solidifies Western Australia’s position as an emerging creative hub.
“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,” said Cook.
“With Perth Film Studios reaching completion we are helping to diversify the economy, create local jobs and unlock new opportunities for talent and innovation in our state.
“This studio complex is absolutely world-class, and I look forward to seeing it welcome the first of many national and international productions as we begin a new era for the WA screen industry.”
The cutting-edge facility features four sound stages totalling 90,000 square feet, with 40-metre clear spans providing more than 8,200 square metres of production space — equivalent to more than 31 tennis courts.
Supporting the main stages are two annexes, workshops for set and prop construction, and the largest backlot in the southern hemisphere at 23,200 square metres, about 22 per cent larger than the turfed surface of Optus Stadium.
Complementing these production spaces is 8,500 square metres of office and administration space, which includes hair, makeup and costume facilities, production offices, a theatre screening room, and staff amenities.
Construction also utilised 160,000 cubic metres of locally sourced sand (enough to fill 64 Olympic-sized swimming pools) and more than 1,670 tonnes of locally acquired and manufactured steel.
Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk said Perth Film Studios would open unprecedented opportunities across Western Australia’s creative workforce.
“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,” said McGurk.
“It will 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.”
Adding to its cultural footprint, the studios have also unveiled public artworks by Aboriginal artists Lea Taylor and Buffie Punch, including an entry statement and yarning circle that reflect local culture and Country through motifs inspired by Mia Mia shelters, water, fire, and the native banksia leaf.
Local member Rita Saffioti, MLA for West Swan, said the project brings both economic and community benefits.
“The north-east corridor of Perth is continuing to grow and major projects like the Perth Film Studios create great local job opportunities for our community.
“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 Perth Film Studios development forms a central component of the Western Australian Screen Industry Strategy, a long-term plan to attract investment, foster talent, and propel the state onto the world stage of screen production.
 acknowledges the government’s recently announced $10 billion housing fund initiative to construct 30,000 new homes in the next five years as a positive initial step in addressing the immediate housing needs of Australia. However, this vision needs to encompass not just housing, but the development of sustainable and resilient infrastructure to effectively support population growth. *The Intergenerational Report 2023*, recently released by the Treasurer of Australia, echoes this necessity, outlining the critical role of infrastructure in supporting socio-economic development and enabling economic and productivity growth. It highlights the continued and increasing investment in infrastructure to help reduce congestion and ensure the smooth, efficient movement of goods and people nationally and internationally. These measures are instrumental in enhancing connectivity, providing access to employment, healthcare, education, and community activities. CJC Management believes that true, sustainable growth requires a far-reaching, holistic approach. While appreciative of the government's focus on housing, the company recognises that extensive and collaborative efforts are needed beyond this sector. CJC Management Group Managing Director Colin Calder said: “The $10 billion housing fund and the Federal Government’s commitment to transport infrastructure expenditure give us a framework upon which we can construct a strong and resilient infrastructure for Australia. As the report suggests, a strategic review of the Infrastructure Investment Program and enhanced planning and coordination with states and territories are essential to improve the quality and sustainability of long-term infrastructure spending.” The Australian engineering and construction industry is changing, especially in regards to the management of project delivery risks. Calder believes that to adapt to this changing landscape, “Organisations will need to establish robust governance, incorporate thorough risk management practices, and employ advanced digital systems for accurate reporting and forecasting. Early engagement with contractors and the adoption of adaptable, performance-incentivised delivery models will be crucial for navigating this emerging industry scenario efficiently.” The construction industry continues to face numerous challenges, including escalated material costs, labour issues, and supply chain disruptions, which are contributing to poor project performance. According to KPMG, with only half of the projects being completed on time, contractors worldwide including in Australia, are under significant pressure. Despite these obstacles, there’s a substantial opportunity for improvement in the sector. Organisations handling major projects should prioritise proper delivery and procurement models, precise cost estimates, and realistic schedules. Emphasis should also be on comprehensive risk management, cost analysis, fair risk distribution, efficient project management offices, solid governance, integrated project controls, and utilising data analytics and technology to boost project performance and productivity. A growing trend is evident as the construction industry increasingly adopts diverse technologies including mobile platforms, AI, and robotic process automation. Alongside the notable surge in modular or offsite manufacturing, these advanced technologies and methods are poised to markedly enhance the industry's efficiency and overall performance. Emphasising the importance of advanced tools, the sector is turning its attention towards project management information systems, integrated project controls, building information models, and sophisticated data analytics to amplify return on investment in construction projects. ESG considerations are emerging as a central focus not just in Australia, but globally in the infrastructure and construction sectors. Organisations are actively urging the industry to embrace more environmentally sustainable practices. Calder said: “This push is resulting in a significant shift with industry leaders establishing ambitious targets for reducing carbon footprints, waste, and pollution and heightening biodiversity awareness.” In addition, there is a marked effort to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion within the industry, all factors that are vital for future success. . “We are beginning to witness the industry not just talk about, but also act upon the belief that a diverse workforce is pivotal for enhancing project resilience. There is still a long way to go but, this industry approach effectively tackles disruption, brings fresh skills and perspectives to the forefront, and adeptly handles challenges tied to scheduling, remote working, and job site travel. To ensure continued progress, the industry needs to hold firm in its commitment to fostering inclusivity, investing in training and development, and implementing policies that support a diverse and equitable workplace,” said Calder. As Australia takes steps toward infrastructural improvement, Calder concludes that it is vital for the entire industry to look beyond traditional construction. “The inclusion of digital innovation, environmental sustainability, and workforce diversity is essential for the journey ahead. Together with other industry leaders, CJC Management is ready to share insights and collaborate extensively to ensure that our collective infrastructure robustly meets future demands and challenges particularly as our population grows,” said Calder.](https://www.buildaustralia.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/shutterstock_1108946396_edited-1000x667-1.jpg)
