If you ever felt a little thrill spotting Sydney's skyline in a Hollywood blockbuster, you're not alone.

Australia has been a playground among international filmmakers, even earning the nickname 'Hollywood Down Under'.

However, recent announcements from United States (US) President Donald Trump sent a ripple of concern through the thriving film industry.


US President Trump has proposed 100 per cent tariffs on films produced outside the United States.

In a post on social media, President Trump claimed that the American movie industry has been 'dying a very fast death'.

He then blamed foreign countries—including Australia—for luring filmmakers away with attractive incentives and called it a 'national security threat'.


Australia has become a hotspot for big-budget international productions.

Recent blockbusters like The Fall Guy, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, and Thor: Ragnarok have all been filmed on Aussie shores.

The details of how and when these tariffs would be imposed are still unclear.

However, the announcement already caused a stir among industry insiders and government officials alike.


According to Screen Australia, nearly half of the $1.7 billion spent on-screen production in Australia last year came from international projects.

Meanwhile, $767 million went directly into foreign film and television.

The Australian government has been attracting production houses as they offer a 30 per cent rebate for big-budget films shot in the country.

Additionally, there are also extra incentives for state governments and post-production workers.

These offers made Australia an irresistible destination for filmmakers looking for stunning locations and skilled crew members.

If President Trump's proposed tariffs materialise, they could make it more expensive for American audiences to watch films made outside the US—including those shot in Australia.

This change could discourage Hollywood studios from filming Down Under.

It may also make tickets more expensive for Australian-made films shown in the US.


The international film industry supports thousands of Australian jobs—from actors, camera operators, caterers, set builders, and local businesses near filming locations.

Losing these productions could mean fewer opportunities for talented workers and smaller establishments.

'At this stage, it is unclear what this announcement means in practice or how it will be applied and implemented,' Matthew Deaner, CEO of Screen Producers Australia, summarised.

'There are many unknowns for our industry, but until we know more, there's no doubt it will send shockwaves worldwide.'

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister for the Arts Tony Burke both weighed in on the proposed tariffs and promised to stand up for the Australian film industry.

While Prime Minister Albanese has not explicitly addressed the tariffs yet, Minister Burke gave his reassurance to the public.

'Nobody should be under any doubt that we will be standing up unequivocally for the rights of the Australian screen industry,' Minister Burke stated.

While the future is uncertain, Australia's film industry has proven resilient before.

Industry leaders have been calling for continued investment in local talent and infrastructure so they can keep telling Australia's unique stories.
Have you or someone you know worked on an international film set in Australia? What do you think about the proposed tariffs on films and shows? Are they fair, or do they threaten our local industry? We would love to hear your stories and opinions in the comments section below!