Indian government approves film co-production deal with Australia

The Indian government has signed an audiovisual co-production deal with Australia, which aims to encourage the co-production of films between the two countries.

While details are scarce at this time, producer contributions from the two countries can range anywhere from 20% to 80% of the final total cost of the co-produced work.

“Australia has become a prime location for Indian films. India is fast becoming a major content hub for filmmakers looking for new projects. India has an abundance of exotic filming locations, a talent pool and relatively lower production costs, making India a preferred destination for foreign filmmakers,” the Indian government said in a statement.

“The proposed agreement will strengthen ties with Australia, lead to arts and culture exchanges, showcase our country’s soft power and result in job creation for artistic, technical and non-technical personnel involved in audiovisual co-production , including production and post-production work,” the statement added.

India unveiled filming incentives at Cannes earlier this year and, as revealed by diversityOne of the first films to make use of it is the Australian film The Laugh of Lakshmi.

The best-known Australian co-production filmed in India is the BAFTA-winning Lion, starring Dev Patel. Several top talent Indian films have been shot in Australia including Indian starring Kamal Haasan, Salaam Namaste starring Saif Ali Khan, Dil Chahta Hai starring Aamir Khan, Chak De India starring Shah Rukh Khan and Singh Is Kinng” starring Akshay Kumar.

India also has existing co-production agreements with Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, New Zealand and Poland. Portugal, Korea, Russia, Spain and the UK Australia currently has treaties with Canada, China, Germany, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore and South Africa and is signatory to memoranda of understanding with France and New Zealand. Australia’s existing treaty with Britain is being renegotiated while a treaty with Denmark is being negotiated.