Langbroek responds to Trump tariff talk with a measured stance
Queensland’s Arts Minister, John-Paul Langbroek, acknowledged the renewed 100 per cent tariff threat on foreign-made films announced by US President Donald Trump but stressed that the state’s film industry remains buoyant despite ongoing trade uncertainty. Langbroek said he would again write to federal counterpart Tony Burke to seek diplomatic clarification on the latest proposal, underlining the importance of clear guidance for producers planning shoots in Queensland.
“This is not a new conversation,” Langbroek said. “The local industry has been very active since May, and just last week we saw substantive activity with the production of Subversion featuring well-known talent.” He added that while the sector is vibrant and positive about the future, there is a genuine need for the federal government to provide a clear position on the tariff issue to help planning and investment decisions.
Industry momentum persists amid policy ambiguity
Langbroek’s update comes as the Queensland film scene continues to gain traction, with production activity boosted by state incentives that aim to attract and retain projects. A number of states have introduced tax incentives to lure film and television productions, and Queensland has been actively promoting its competitive landscape to studios and crews. The minister noted that even in the face of tariff speculation, the state’s film-friendly environment remains attractive to both domestic and international producers.
The risk to the Australian industry, which contributes billions to the economy, hinges on policy clarity. A 100 per cent tariff on foreign-made films could alter where productions choose to shoot, influence crew employment, and impact ancillary services. Yet in Queensland, the reaction has been pragmatic: continue to support production, await federal guidance, and monitor the international policy environment as it evolves.
Queensland’s production pipeline and incentives
Queensland has invested in production-friendly policies, including grants and incentives designed to boost on-location shooting and post-production work. These measures have helped drive local investment, sustain jobs, and stimulate related sectors such as equipment rental, studios, and post-production facilities. Langbroek emphasized the importance of alignment between state and federal policies to safeguard ongoing growth in the film sector, noting that the state’s capital, crews, and infrastructure are ready to accommodate both domestic projects and international collaborations.
As the industry navigates geopolitical and trade uncertainties, producers are increasingly assessing risk, seeking tax-efficient options, and planning around potential shifts in import duties, distribution, and audience access. The Queensland government’s stance—supportive, but seeking clarity—reflects a balanced approach to safeguarding industry momentum without dampening investor confidence.
What this means for filmmakers in Queensland
For local filmmakers and crews, the immediate takeaway is to stay informed and engaged with both state and federal authorities. The ongoing dialogue between Langbroek and Burke aims to reduce ambiguity and help production schedules align with any policy developments. While the tariff threat could reshape some foreign partnerships, Queensland’s robust production ecosystem, skilled crews, and favorable incentives remain strong selling points for projects considering the state as a filming hub.
Looking ahead, industry stakeholders hope for timely clarification that will enable continued collaboration with international partners. In the meantime, Langbroek’s message is one of cautious optimism: the state’s film industry is active, resilient, and well-positioned to capitalize on opportunities, provided there is a clear and stable policy framework.
Conclusion: cautious optimism amid uncertainty
As the federal government weighs tariff proposals, Queensland’s film sector remains engaged and hopeful. By seeking diplomatic clarification and maintaining strong incentives, the state signals its commitment to preserving a thriving creative economy while awaiting definitive guidance from Canberra. The conversation, far from stalling the industry, has highlighted Queensland’s role as a dynamic center for Australian film production.
