One of the world's leading visual effects (VFX) and animation studios has landed in Australia. The UK's DNEG will open a new studio in Sydney's Tech Central district in 2023. The investment is expected to create 472 direct and 554 indirect jobs by 2024.
The Sydney studio has already secured its first high-profile project. It will lead the VFX work for George Miller's much-anticipated Mad Max prequel, Furiosa.
'[We are] building a substantial and sustainable presence in Sydney that allows us to engage with Australia's talented and experienced creative leaders, artists, technologists and production crews,' says DNEG CEO and Chairman Namit Malhotra.
'It marks another milestone in our mission to bring the very best VFX and animation services to filmmakers all over the world.'
Sydney to be a full-service VFX and animation studio
DNEG creates VFX and animation for feature films, television and multiplatform content. The Academy Award and BAFTA-winning company employs nearly 8,000 people across 4 continents. DNEG's projects include Black Adam, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery and Oppenheimer.
DNEG Sydney will be a full-service VFX studio, developing complex VFX projects for film and episodic projects. It will also be home to a new DNEG Animation studio.
Australian Andrew Jackson will move from London to head up DNEG Sydney.
'DNEG is leading the charge when it comes to supporting some of the most creative and visionary directors in the industry,' says Jackson. 'Together we are creating groundbreaking, innovative and inspiring VFX and animation work.
'DNEG's entrance into the Australian market will provide us with access to a new pool of talented individuals, including some of the most imaginative minds in the industry. I am delighted to be working with the new crew that we are building to deliver some truly inspirational effects.'
Support from federal and state governments
DNEG's expansion to Sydney was supported as part of the Austrade-led Global Australia Taskforce. This is a whole-of-government initiative to identify, target and attract global high-value enterprises to Australia.
Austrade and the Department of Home Affairs assisted DNEG with extensive advice and introductions, including to Australian industry and government.
The New South Wales Government supported DNEG through its A$250million Jobs Plus Program. The program helps eligible companies to set up and expand their presence in NSW. It includes payroll relief, support for infrastructure and subsidised training programs.
'DNEG was particularly impressed with the way the Australian Government and NSW Government worked together to ensure a smooth and rapid entry into the Australian market,' says Merzin Tavaria, President, Global Production and Operations, DNEG.
Australia's award-winning film industry
Australia is a prime destination for international productions, thanks to its striking locations, world-class studios, creative talent, and generous government incentives. Past productions include Thor: Love and Thunder, Ticket To Paradise and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.
