Australian Film Industry Warns Trump Tariffs Could Devastate Jobs
GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA – A proposed 100% tariff on foreign films by former U.S. President Donald Trump is sparking alarm within the Australian film industry, with leaders warning the policy could cripple production and cost thousands of jobs. Concerns are mounting ahead of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s scheduled meeting with Trump at the White House on October 20.
The potential tariffs, initially floated earlier this year, threaten to undermine Australia‘s growing reputation as a prime location for international film and television production, particularly on the Gold Coast. Queensland Film Industry CEO Kristin Tate urged Prime Minister Albanese to directly address the issue with Trump, stating, ”To have a 100 per cent tariff would be devastating to our film industry.”
Australia has become a sought-after destination for filmmakers due to its skilled workforce, competitive production costs, and diverse locations.Tate emphasized that producers and directors choose locations like the gold Coast based on value and capability, not simply goodwill. “You don’t take advantage of friends and go, ‘We’re still good mates’. Its not how anyone should operate,” she added.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli echoed these concerns, expressing he was “very concerned” about the potential impact. “Australia’s been great friends with the US for a long period of time and there’s been a reflection on that with other tariffs,” Crisafulli said, adding that any government decision hindering the competitiveness of the Australian film industry is “troubling.”
The Australian film industry contributes significantly to the national economy, and Queensland has emerged as a major hub for both domestic and international productions. The proposed tariffs raise fears that projects will be diverted to other countries, leading to job losses and a decline in investment.