A significant construction milestone has been achieved at the Perth Film Studios site in Malaga, Western Australia, as massive steel roofing structures are being lifted into place.
This marks a crucial step forward in the state government’s commitment to supporting the state’s screen industry.
The project, located on a 16-hectare site near the new Malaga METRONET station, will feature four sound stages at its core.
Two prefabricated modules, each spanning 40 metres and weighing 30 tonnes, are forming the framework for the roof over the first sound stage.
The completed studio complex will boast 8,200 square metres of interior production space, along with production offices, an art department, wardrobe, workshops, set storage, parking, and a 23,200 square metre backlot larger than the playing field at Optus Stadium.
The Western Australian government has invested $233.5 million in this screen production facility, developed through the state government’s Market-led Proposals Policy.
This initiative aims to establish WA as a major creative centre for international and national film, television, and digital media production.
The construction project has created significant employment opportunities, with over 200 people directly employed on-site.
One-fifth of the workforce consists of apprentices or trainees, and there is a notable Indigenous employee presence.
In total, the project has generated 600 direct and indirect jobs, including positions with local suppliers of structural steel, concrete, bulk fill, and other materials and services.
Construction is progressing on schedule, with completion expected by the end of 2025. The studios are set to open for business in early 2026.
Once operational, the Perth Film Studios will support new film productions, creating hundreds of additional jobs and bringing significant economic benefits to the state.
Treasurer Rita Saffioti expressed excitement about the project, stating: “The studio complex will rival the best in Australia and help attract major productions from around Australia and the world while boosting the business and employment opportunities for the local industry and the WA economy more broadly.”
Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman emphasised the importance of the studios for retaining local talent and attracting international productions.
He noted: “We already have magnificent and unique landscapes that provide spectacular backdrops for the production industry, but soon we will have world-class studio facilities that will complete the picture for producers and directors.”
The Perth Film Studios project is a key component of the recently released WA Screen Industry Strategy, supported by an additional $31.9 million in funding.
This initiative aims to significantly boost the state’s screen industry and position Western Australia as a competitive player in the global film and television production market.