Founded in 1806, Launceston is the largest city in Northern Tasmania and located at the confluence of three rivers – the South Esk, the North Esk, and the River Tamar.
As the heart of and gateway to Northern Tasmania, Launceston’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and cinematic charm make it a captivating destination. While Hobart may often steal the limelight, Launceston stands out for its unique allure, preserved heritage buildings and diverse environments, making it a hidden gem for filmmakers.
“Each time I have filmed within Launceston, and the Tamar Valley region, City of Launceston council have been incredibly supportive, and encouraging, offering local knowledge, and location specifics. Currently, there are no filming permits required to film commercially within the City of Launceston municipality, cutting out the red tape and often long lead-times for approvals. Traffic and pedestrian management do require permitting, which is an easy process through council, and many of the roads are State roads, requiring permissions from State Growth directly.”
Kate Fox, Location Manager
The Allure of Tasmanian Gothic
Transfixed by an eerie, atmospheric edge, Launceston’s rich history and wild landscapes see it as home to some of the oldest buildings in Australia, offering a treasure trove of heritage locations ready for screen.
Wrapped in folklore, combined with colonial architecture and well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian buildings Launceston is the ideal setting for a gothic aesthetic. Explore haunting pasts through misty forests and brooding mountains under twilight. Launceston offers a psychological landscape with depth and mood for cinematic presence.
Urban meets Nature
With remarkable ease, Launceston seamlessly blends urban life with wild landscapes. Just 5 minutes from the city centre is the Cataract Gorge, a natural wonder with dramatic cliffs, walking trails, and the world’s longest single-span chairlift. Surrounded by lush forests and fed by the South Esk River, the gorge offers an unparalleled backdrop. Its rich history, along with the breathtaking scenery, provides a cinematic setting that effortlessly captures the wild beauty of Tasmania.
Beyond Cataract Gorge, Launceston is surrounded by diverse landscapes – ranging from epic water falls at Liffey, The Great Lake, the winding South Esk River to the vast, tranquil Tamar Valley or Meander Valley, both dotted with wineries and charming countryside. While, just 10 minutes from the city centre, Tamar Island Wetlands provide wide open skies and abundant wildlife, ideal for capturing natural beauty and stillness on camera.
Historical Significance
Australia’s third oldest city, Launceston’s rich colonial history adds depth and authenticity to any production. The region was home to Tasmanian Aboriginal people for tens of thousands of years before European settlers arrived in 1804 and, unlike re-developed cities Melbourne and Sydney, offers one of the best-preserved early cityscapes in Australia. Early Colonial and Georgian, grand Victorian and Edwardian manor homes, Federation and Art Deco streetscapes remain, making period filmmaking a more cost-effective exercise than on the mainland of Australia.
“Outside of the CBD, and all within half an hour, quaint townships with impressive heritage homesteads, farmhouses, and rural landscapes transport to another world where you could be literally anywhere, allowing the local and accessible region to double for or cheat as an international setting.”
Kate Fox, Location Manager
Key landmarks such as Franklin House provide a beautifully preserved 19th century sandstone heritage home with formal gardens while Custom House is a readymade heritage backdrop with a commanding presence, river access and a civil, institutional aesthetic.
For a more immersive experience, filmmakers can venture just outside the city to the Brickendon Estate and Woolmers Estate, both World Heritage-listed sites of 19th century colonial homesteads and outbuildings.
Shooting a period drama? Head to Clarendon Estate. This 18th century Georgian house featured in Netflix’s Lunatics provides an elegant and authentic backdrop.
Charming Culture
In addition to its striking visuals, Launceston’s recognition as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy speaks to the city’s thriving creative culture. Known for its emphasis on sustainable food systems and local produce, Launceston offers a backdrop that is as vibrant and dynamic as it is scenic. The city’s food and wine scene, complemented by its bustling markets and festivals, adds another layer of character and charm to any production.
Production-Friendly Infrastructure and Accessibility
Launceston’s accessibility makes it a film-friendly destination. The city is an easy 15 minutes to reach via Launceston Airport, which offer daily flights from multiple Australian cities, as well as international connections. The nearby major cargo port of Devonport just over 1 hour away, welcomes the Spirit of Tasmania ferry twice daily and provides a convenient way to bring vehicles and equipment from mainland Australia, adding flexibility for large-scale productions.
Once in Launceston, you will find a city that caters to all your needs, with accommodation options ranging from affordable serviced apartments, popular hotel chains, Airbnb’s, boutique townhouses and Victorian-era mansions. Whether you’re looking for convenient, budget-friendly options or indulgent, high-end stays, Launceston caters to all tastes and budgets.
Launceston is not just a stunning backdrop; it is a city that embraces and facilitates film production success. With a film friendly approach to filming permits and a highly supportive local community, the city has hosted successful productions such as 90 Day Fiancé and Teenage Boss, both of which filmed with local talent, while recent Isuzu TV commercials, showcased the region’s wild, cinematic terrain with dramatic sweeping aerial shots.
“There was also a great city CBD driving shot that we had a car-rig camera for the Isuzu commercial. The streetscapes are great for a CBD shoot, especially to showcase a vehicle, as the CBD is a continuous one-way loop.”
Kate Fox, Location Manager
Production can also benefit from the Screen Tasmania – Island Screen Incentive, which offers grants to eligible projects, further enhancing the city’s appeal. Local talent and experienced crews are ready to support productions of all sizes, from independent films to high-budget productions.
Booked your Ticket Yet?
With its diverse landscapes, historic architecture, and film-friendly atmosphere, Launceston is ready to host your next project. Whether you are seeking haunting, atmospheric shots, stunning natural backdrops, or heritage-rich cityscapes, Launceston can be your ideal setting. Its combination of urban charm, nature, and history provides endless possibilities, and the local community’s warmth and support make it easy to bring your production vision to life. Ready to explore?
To learn more about filming in Launceston, including production incentives and location services, visit Screen Tasmania.