Australian Capital Territory - Apply for Film and Television License

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Procedure

Apply In Person

1. Applying for a Film and Television License can vary depending on the location and specific requirements of the filming location. Generally, the process involves several steps and may require coordination with different authorities.
2. Here is a general guide on how to apply for a Film and Television License:

Step 1: Research the Location:

1. Identify the specific locations where you plan to shoot your film.
2. Different locations may have different permit requirements, fees, and regulations, so it's essential to research each one thoroughly.

Step 2: Contact Local Film Commission or Permit Office:

1. Approach the local film commission or the appropriate permit office for the location where you plan to shoot.
2. Use the following link to know the contact details link
3. They will be able to provide you with the necessary information about permits, application procedures, and any associated fees.

Step 3: Submit Script and Filming Details:

1. Prepare the script and provide detailed information about your filming project.
2. Include the shooting schedule, number of crew members, equipment you will be using, and any special effects or stunts you plan to perform.

Step 4: Insurance Requirements:

1. Many locations will require you to carry liability insurance to cover any potential damages that may occur during filming.
2. Make sure you have the necessary insurance coverage and be prepared to provide proof of insurance during the application process.

Step 5: Location Agreements and Permissions:

1. If you plan to shoot on private property, you will need to obtain written permission from the property owner or relevant authority.
2. Some public locations may also require additional agreements or permissions.

Step 6: Environmental Impact and Safety Measures:

1. In some cases, you may need to provide details about the environmental impact of your shoot and outline safety measures to protect the public and the environment during filming.

Step 7: Film Crew Information: Provide details about your film crew, including names, roles, and contact information. This is especially important for security and emergency purposes.

Step 8: Payment of Fees:

1. Some filming locations charge permit fees.
2. Make sure to inquire about the cost and arrange for the payment of any applicable fees.

Step 9: Submit the Application:

1. Complete the film license application form with all the necessary information and submit it to the appropriate authorities or film commission.
2. Some locations may have online application portals, while others may require physical submission.

Step 10: Wait for Approval:

1. The permit approval process may take some time, so be patient.
2. During this period, authorities may review your application and request any additional information they may need.
3. This entire process can be completed within 30 - 90 days or as per the timeline advised by the respective department authority.

Step 11: Comply with Permit Conditions:

1. If your permit is approved, ensure that you adhere to all the conditions and regulations specified in the permit.
2. This may include respecting specific shooting hours, noise restrictions, and clean-up requirements.

Step 12: Post-Filming Requirements:

1. After your film, you may need to provide follow-up documentation, such as production reports or details of any changes made during filming.

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Required Documents

• Application Form
• Traffic Management Plan
• Proof of Insurance
• Location Agreements and Permissions
• Environmental Impact Assessment (if required)
• Safety Measures and Emergency Plans
• Payment of Permit Fees
• Any other documents (If required)

Office Locations & Contacts

Screen Australia


SYDNEY HEAD OFFICE
Gadigal Country
Level 7, 45 Jones Street
Ultimo NSW 2007
GPO Box 3984
Sydney NSW 2001
Phone: +61 2 8113 5800
Free call: 1800 213 099 (available nationally, charges to mobiles and payphones will apply)
Program Operations (application inquiries): 1800 507 901


MELBOURNE OFFICE
Wurundjeri Country
Ground floor
290 Coventry Street
South Melbourne VIC 3205
PO Box 404
South Melbourne VIC 3205
Phone: +61 3 8682 1900
Free call 1800 213 681 (available nationally, charges to mobiles and payphones will apply)​
Program Operations (application inquiries): 1800 507 901
Contact link

Eligibility

• Any filmmaker or production company who intends to Apply for a Film and Television License is eligible to make this application.

Fees

• The applicant must pay the prescribed fee as requested by the authority.

Validity

Explain the time until which the certificate/document is valid.
e.g. Birth Certificate Valid Forever

Documents to Use

Please attach documents that can be used by people. e.g. links

Sample Documents

Please attach sample completed documents that would help other people.

Processing Time

• This entire process can be completed within 30 -90 days or as per the timeline advised by the respective department authority.

Related Videos

Videos explaining the procedure or to fill the applications.
Attach videos using the following tag <&video type='website'>video ID|width|height<&/video&> from external websites.
Please remove the '&' inside the tags during implementation.
Website = allocine, blip, dailymotion, facebook, gametrailers, googlevideo, html5, metacafe, myspace, revver,
sevenload, viddler, vimeo, youku, youtube
width = 560, height = 340, Video ID = Can be obtained from the URL of webpage where the video is displayed.

e.g. In the following url 'http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0US7oR_t3M' Video ID is 'Y0US7oR_t3M'.

Instructions

• Applicants must complete the application form before submitting it. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
• Applicants must provide genuine information while applying for this procedure.

Required Information

• Name of the applicant
• Address
• Email
• Telephone
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Country
• State
• City
• Details of the film company
• Production Company Information
• Equipment List

Need for the Document

• A Film and Television License in Australia refers to the legal permission or authorization required to conduct filming activities for movies, television shows, commercials, documentaries, or any other audiovisual productions.
• This license is typically issued by the relevant government agency or film commission in the state or territory where the filming will occur.

Information which might help

Essential purposes of a Film and Television License include:

• Legal Compliance: The license ensures that your production follows all local laws and regulations related to filming, public safety, and environmental concerns.
• Permission to Film: It permits you to film in specific locations, whether they are public spaces, private properties, or controlled areas.
• Safety and Security: The license may require you to submit safety plans, risk assessments, and other documentation to ensure the safety of the cast, crew, and the public during filming.
• Traffic and Public Access Management: For shoots that impact traffic or public access, the license might specify how you will manage these aspects to minimize disruptions.
• Insurance and Liability: The license may require you to have appropriate insurance coverage, including public liability insurance, to protect against accidents, damages, and legal claims.
• Environmental Considerations: Depending on the production's impact, the license might require you to assess and mitigate potential environmental impacts.
• Compliance with Codes of Practice: The license may outline your commitment to adhering to industry best practices, ethical guidelines, and codes of conduct.
• Use of Intellectual Property: If your production involves any copyrighted material, music, or other intellectual property, the license might address permissions and rights.

Other uses of the Document/Certificate

Please explain what are other benefits of obtaining this document/certificate.

e.g. Birth Certificate can be used as proof of identity.

External Links

link

Others

The Australian Government does not have a separate license for film and television production. However, there are several government agencies and industry bodies that can provide support and funding for film and television production in Australia. These include:

• The Australian Government Department of Communications and the Arts
• Screen Australia
• The Australian Film Institute
• The Screen Producers Association of Australia