Melbourne’s plan to lure Hollywood to the CBD

Melbourne could become prime real estate for Hollywood blockbusters. See where major movies could be filmed.

Big blockbuster films could be filmed in Melbourne, as the state government green lights a bold plan to bring international projects down under.

A sixth sound stage, worth $46 million, at the Docklands Studios Melbourne is being spruiked as a golden opportunity to bolster Victoria as a globally competitive destination for screen entertainment.

Business precincts Minister Martin Pakula on Thursday called on local and international film, screen and media organisations to bring their projects to Melbourne.

Docklands Studios Melbourne. Picture: NCA NewsWire/ David Crosling

It’s hoped some of the world’s biggest and best production companies will pitch innovative proposals that could support studio operations at the Docklands Media Precinct, which is set to break ground in 2022.

“We know Victoria is a global destination for screen, technology, innovation and creative industries,” Mr Pakula said.

“This project will further build Melbourne’s profile in these industries and attract more world class organisations and guests to our city.”

The state government has previously coined the Docklands Media Precinct as a “globally recognised media destination”.

The CBD could be featured in upcoming movies. Picture: NCA NewsWire/ David Crosling

Creative Industries Minister Danny Pearson said: “This is an excellent opportunity to build on the strengths of Docklands Studios.”

“We look forward to submissions that will help to bring the precinct vision to life and strengthen our screen industry, creating more jobs for the sector.”

It will also bring a welcome boost to the state’s economy, and create new jobs through construction and ongoing operations.

The Herald Sun last year revealed a host of locations in Melbourne that were also selected to film parts of Liam Neeson’s Hollywood blockbuster Blacklight, with the star spotted on set in the Macedon Ranges and Noble Park.

Prior to the pandemic, Victoria’s screen industry provided 17,000 jobs and contributed $2.2 billion to the state economy.

Production on local films, television series and commercials has been green-lit post COVID, with filming underway in Melbourne and regional Victoria.

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