SPI Report Informs Ausfilm’s Approach to Tackling Below-The-Line Workforce Capacity in Australia

Behind the scenes on feature film Gold, filmed in South Australia. Photo by Matt Nettheim

In 2020, Ausfilm commissioned SPI to conduct a Production Infrastructure and Capacity Audit (PICA) of Australia’s screen production sector, with a specific focus on below-the-line workforce capacity.

The study utilised desk research, consultations and an industry survey to examine Australia’s current and future capacity to service international productions. With a specific focus on below-the-line workforce capacity and skills gaps, the study also examined the current capacity of physical infrastructure and production services, as well as the current offering of training, education and diversity and inclusion initiatives across Australia.

In response to SPI’s findings, Ausfilm will assemble a working group with other leading industry stakeholders, including Screen Australia, AFTRS, NIDA, the Office of the Arts, and the state screen agencies. The working group will work towards developing a national framework to address the capacity constraints and support future growth.

Ausfilm has also hired a workforce capacity strategy executive to enact initiatives developed as a result of SPI’s research.

More on SPI’s PICA work can be found here and an article on the announcement here.