Film is – and has always been – a core part of what it means to be a Sydney sider. With regard to Sydney and its film industry, most of the developments are considered to demonstrate a dynamic balance between the different film-related sectors, public and private, as well as including the new media and technology field. The strength of Sydney’s film industry lies in its openness towards cinema of
all cultures. Its mission to promote the cinema extends beyond its territory and allows the city to play a leadership role at the regional level. The recognition of Australia’s Aboriginal culture through cinema is highly appreciable. The large density of film festivals as well as partnerships the city has with other cities throughout Australia characterizes Sydney’s film scene. In addition the city’s actions in favour of youth, such as training programmes that are relatively new yet diverse and highly dynamic, proves the city’s commitment to continuously generate innovation and creativity. New South Wales (NSW) is Australia’s pre-eminent state for film and television production, with 57% of all Australian drama production in 2012-13 taking place in NSW. In 2013-14, NSW was the location for high levels of both foreign and local production and post-production, including the feature films Strangerland starring Nicole Kidman, Joseph Fiennes and Hugo Weaving; The LEGO Movie; Angelina Jolie's Unbroken, and The Gods Of Egypt starting Geoffrey Rush, directed by Alex Proyas. Sydney boasts state-of-the-art studio facilities and is home to a wealth of creative and technical talent. Nearly 60% of all Australians employed in the screen production industry are based in NSW and more than half of all Australian production and post-production businesses are located in NSW.
