Perth Unveils First Production at New $233.5M Film Studio
Perth’s new studio has its first major shoot underway. Two Birds, a six-part crime drama, is now filming at the Malaga facility and on location in Kalgoorlie.
Production and filming
The series is being produced for Stan and for ITV in the UK. More than 100 cast and crew are expected on set across the shoot.
Filming will use one of the Malaga sound stages and scenes will be shot in Kalgoorlie. The town is fictionalised as Dugdale in the story.
Cast and story
British BAFTA winner Sheridan Smith leads the cast as Izzie, a detective seeking a fresh start. Australian actors Judy Davies and Stephen Peacocke also feature in key roles.
Producer Martha Coleman says the plot follows Izzie as events begin to unravel her life soon after arrival. The series explores crime and personal fallout in a remote town.
Studio, costs and incentives
The Malaga complex cost $233.5M to build. Including incentives and operating costs, the state government investment totals about $300M.
Screenwest provided incentive grants to support the production. Officials estimate the shoot will inject roughly $17 million into the WA economy.
Industry response and outlook
Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk said this production signals more work to come. Perth Film Studios chief executive Tom Avison confirmed strong interest at multiple industry levels.
Avison pointed to domestic and international enquiries, and to other major streamers eyeing WA. He noted Netflix’s Breakers filming in the South West as evidence of growing attention.
National context
New South Wales has announced plans to seek private partners for six new sound stages. That project carries a proposed $100 million investment.
Avison suggested the NSW move reflects appetite for production across Australia. He said the developments broaden the country’s options for incoming projects.
Filmogaz.com reported from Perth on the studio opening and the Two Birds production. The Malaga complex was completed two months before filming began.
