Film Co-production treaty is to be signed between Indian & Australian Govt

Mumbai:A film co-production treaty is to be signed in a few days between the Indian and Australian governments.

The aim is to encourage Australian and Indian film makers to work together, by streamlining some of the administrative and funding issues around such cooperation.


The practical benefits for film makers are that projects approved as official co-productions under the treaty will be granted 'national treatment' by both countries, co-producers can access a range of funding and tax benefits, simplified immigration requirements for the entry of skilled personnel, and duty-free importation of equipment for use in co-productions.

The Indian film industry has yet to capitalise on the many policies like the 40 per cent producers' rebate set in place.

The Australian government has designated 2012 as 'The Year of India' and there will be a strong focus on India across all areas of trade, including the screen industries.

Through this initiative, there is a strong expectation that in the coming year, there will be more opportunities to exchange ideas and cement ongoing relationships.

This film co-production agreement is a further example of the growing bilateral relationship between Australia and India.