Located only 170km from Brisbane and 200km from the Gold Coast, the Southern Downs is a region of spectacular landscapes, wide open skies and a welcoming community. Our scenery is unique, with rural landscapes neighbouring rainforests and sandstone homesteads nearby. Our film-friendly region offers a diverse range of easily accessible locations, with a dedicated Council liaison available to assist you to find your ideal filming location.
In addition to our stunning scenery, we also have the necessary infrastructure to accommodate your stay, with a variety of local accommodation options, catering, two aerodromes, crane hire companies, construction, electricians, building supplies, security companies, mechanics and vintage car owners and clubs.
Locations
The Southern Downs boasts a diverse range of film-friendly locations, including rural landscapes, heritage buildings and streetscapes, spectacular mountain ranges and national parks, waterways, homesteads, agricultural scenery and more. Find your perfect location on the Screen Queensland Locations Database and visit our Southern Downs and Granite Belt YouTube Channel to see more of our stunning scenery.
Filming permits
Filmmakers must obtain council approval to film on any council land or roads. This is to ensure activities are carried out in a safe manner with minimal disruption to local residents and businesses.
For filming in Girraween National Park, Main Range National Park or Sundown National Park, please contact the Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing. For filming at Leslie Dam, please contact Sunwater.
Your Council Liaison can assist you with completing permits, organising local amenities and helping to find your ideal location.
Funding opportunities for local filmmakers
Southern Downs Regional Council offers funding opportunities for local individuals or community groups. Filmmakers may wish to apply for a grant from the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), which promotes the role and value of arts, culture and heritage. To review the eligibility criteria visit Council’s RADF webpage.
For more information about Council’s Grants to Community programs, visit Grants to Community.
Film Industry Links
- Screen Queensland – supports film and television production across Queensland through a range of programs and funding. They also provide a directory of available locations and crew.
- Screen Australia – supports the Australian film industry through online resources and funding. It aims to inspire, inform and engage screen audiences through compelling Australian storytelling.
- Ausfilm – connects the international film community with Australia’s screen incentives, talent and facilities.
Contact
Council’s Economic Development and Tourism Unit can assist filmmakers with complimentary services including:
- Location scouting and suggestions
- Local Government permits
- Liaison with other organisations for permits
- Local supplier coordination