Filming in the Byron Shire

In recent years the Byron Shire has been a popular set location for films and television series.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the interest in the Byron Shire, and other parts of the Northern Rivers as a location for filming, has increased substantially and indications are that this is going to continue. International production companies view Australia, with its low rates of COVID-19 infections,  as a safe and desirable filming location.

When it comes to filming Byron Shire Council, and all other councils in the State, are bound by the NSW Local Government Act  which contains the Local Government Filming Protocol.

NSW Local Government Filming Protocol

The NSW Government is supportive of the screen industry and the Local Government Filming Protocol set out councils’ roles in relation to filming in local government areas.  

Key points of the protocol are:

• The protocol is binding for all NSW councils.
• As a general principle councils and Government agencies are required to approve screen projects. 
• Filming as an activity does not require council approval but other activities such as road closures, parking regulations and environmental impact on public land may need approval.
• Depending on the duration of the project and location Council approval is sometimes not required for filming on private land/property.
• Councils are expected to grant approvals for filming on council-managed land.
• The only fees councils are allowed to charge are for services they  provide such as application fees and direct expenses relating to approvals – generally only cost recovery.
• Filmmakers are required to inform residents and the local community with filming details.