Screen Queensland’s latest addition to its studio portfolio is making waves in the film industry, and not just because of its stunning locale.

The new Cairns studio officially opened in April 2024, offering an 11,517-square-foot state-of-the-art soundstage to meet the surging demand from Australian and international productions. It’s more than just another filming facility; Cairns, Australia is quickly becoming the ultimate destination for filmmakers looking to combine cutting-edge infrastructure with breathtaking natural backdrops.

Situated in the state of Queensland’s Far North, Cairns provides an alternative vibe to the urban energy of their Brisbane location. The city is nestled between two World Heritage-listed wonders: the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics rainforest. Drive just 30 minutes in any direction, and the scenery transforms dramatically – dense jungles, serene beaches, rolling green hills, the red dust of Australia’s iconic outback – you name it, Queensland has it. Paired with its proximity to emerging Asia-Pacific production opportunities, Cairns Australia is positioned to be a strategic hub for the global film industry.

Queensland Australia is the place to be and its screen industry is thriving, cementing its status as a premier global destination for film and television production. High-profile projects secured for the state include Ticket to Paradise, Godzilla x Kong, Ron Howard’s Eden, Mortal Kombat 2, Good Cop/Bad Cop, The Bluff, Balls Up, and Monarch: Legacy of Monsters (Season 2). The growing slate of productions underscores Queensland’s reputation as a hub of world-class talent, infrastructure, and stunning locations.

While Queensland has been known for its excellence in location filming over the last 30 years, it can now offer a comprehensive package for productions that matches the region’s infrastructure and beauty. Recent investments have transformed the region with upgraded facilities, cutting-edge technology, and an enhanced transport and logistics network.

Financial incentives further sweeten the deal. Screen Queensland’s Production Attraction Strategy (PAS) incentive, combined with Australia’s Location Offset, offers a 30% tax rebate for eligible productions. Thanks to these state and regional incentives, more and more productions are flocking to Queensland to take advantage of the cost-effective filming environment.

The Cairns studio is also aiming to develop the next generation of filmmaking talent. Screen Queensland has rolled out training programs to nurture local crews, ensuring productions have access to a skilled workforce that is ready to meet the industry’s growing demands.

The studio also takes sustainability seriously, aligning its operations with the natural beauty of the region. Resources and initiatives are in place to support environmentally conscious productions, making it a pioneer in green filmmaking.