The NSW Department of Planning has officially backed the next phase of a groundbreaking film studio project on the Central Coast, signaling a significant boost for Australia’s independent production infrastructure amid record-breaking demand.
Central Coast Studios (CCS) has received the crucial Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARS) approval, marking a key milestone in its development as one of the largest proposed screen production precincts in the country. This approval paves the way for CCS to begin its Environmental Impact Statement and advance further into NSW’s planning processes.
Located on a sprawling 28.3-hectare site at Calga, CCS aims to establish an innovative, open-access film and television production hub. The masterplan includes purpose-built sound stages, workshops, and facilities tailored for a diverse range of productions, along with dedicated education and workforce infrastructure. A standout feature is a large-scale external water tank, designed to facilitate complex water-based filming and visual effects, positioning CCS as a cutting-edge hub for the industry.
A Major Step Forward for the Industry and Region
The milestone has garnered strong support from regional stakeholders. The Central Coast Plateau Chamber of Commerce and Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna have both voiced their enthusiasm, emphasizing the project’s potential to generate local jobs, boost businesses, and attract tourism.
“Central Coast Studios will create jobs, help grow local businesses, and attract more visitors to the area,” Mayor McKinna said. “It will boost our local economy and help show the Central Coast as a great place for creativity, culture, and tourism. This project is an important step in building a stronger future for the region.”
Situated near popular visitor attractions like Glenworth Valley Wilderness Adventures, Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Australian Reptile Park, the site is strategically positioned within a vibrant tourism and recreation corridor.
Supporting Australia’s Growing Screen Industry
Industry leaders see CCS as a vital response to Australia’s surging screen production activity. Regional Director of Business NSW Central Coast Scott Goold highlighted the project’s alignment with regional economic growth and job creation.
“This precinct directly supports our strategic priorities to grow creative industries in regional NSW, diversify the economy, and provide long-term employment opportunities for local youth and creatives,” Goold said.
Meanwhile, Shadow Minister for the Central Coast Jacqueline Munro called on the state government to lend its support.
“This is a perfect chance for the Minns Labor Government to back the screen industry,” Munro stated. “The Minister for the Central Coast should support this proposal and help ensure CCS gets the pathway it needs to succeed.”
A Response to Industry Challenges and Opportunities
Recent figures from Screen Australia’s Drama Report reveal that drama production expenditure hit a record $2.7 billion in 2024/25, driven by international and subscription-based productions. However, Queensland surpassed NSW for the first time in drama spending, highlighting the need for NSW to expand its studio capacity
