Western Australia Launches Indian Film Council to Strengthen Creative Ties

In a polished ceremony at Perth’s Government House Ballroom on Friday, 11 September 2026, Premier Roger Cook formally unveiled the West Australian Indian Film Council (WAIFC). The launch marked the state’s first dedicated, not‑for‑profit body aimed at weaving together Western Australia’s screen and creative industries with India’s expansive film, television, streaming, digital media and related sectors.

The council’s mandate is clear: to nurture long‑term, mutually beneficial connections that span co‑production, location work, talent exchange, education, investment, festivals and cultural partnerships. By positioning WA as a natural bridge between Australia and India—thanks to Perth’s closer proximity to Mumbai than Sydney’s—WAIFC seeks to capitalize on geographic advantage and the dynamism of both creative ecosystems.

The event drew a cross‑section of stakeholders: senior government officials, diplomatic representatives, industry leaders, business executives and community members. Their presence underscored the growing appetite for collaboration between the two regions, whether through storytelling, creative collaboration or broader industry development.

At the heart of the council is its chair and director, Nilesh Makwana, who framed WAIFC’s vision around a simple proposition: Western Australia can play a larger role in the Australia‑India creative relationship. Makwana highlighted Perth’s proximity to Mumbai and described India as “one of the world’s most diverse and dynamic screen industries, spanning film, television, streaming, animation, visual effects and digital content.” He added that the council would create “practical opportunities for collaboration – from co‑productions and location opportunities to talent exchange, education, investment, festivals and cultural partnerships.”

Consul General of India to Western Australia and Northern Territory, Ms Kajari Biswas, welcomed the initiative, noting that the launch signals an exciting new chapter in bilateral ties. She remarked, “Film and storytelling have a unique ability to bring people together, deepen cultural understanding and create new opportunities for collaboration.” She pointed out that India’s vibrant film industry and Western Australia’s growing capabilities in film and creative industries offer fertile ground for partnership.

The council’s birth follows a long history of cultural linkage. Fearless Nadia—born Mary Ann Evans in Perth in 1908—later became an iconic figure in Indian cinema, providing a symbolic foundation for the new partnership.

Economic context underscores the council’s relevance. India’s film and entertainment sector generated an estimated US$5.91 billion in 2025, producing over 2,000 films each year across more than 30 languages. In contrast, Western Australia’s cultural and creative industries contributed $6.2 billion to the state’s economy in 2024. The WA government has already invested $290 million in Perth Film Studios and its operations, expanding the state’s capacity for screen production.

WAIFC’s objectives are threefold: first, to create pathways for collaboration, investment and production that can support jobs, retain graduates and skilled professionals, and grow local talent and intellectual property; second, to showcase Western Australia to audiences and industry across India; and third, to build strategic partnerships across the creative, education, tourism and business sectors.

The council is presently in its initial phase, planning a series of roundtables, forums and festivals that will connect Indian and WA creatives. Its website, waifc.org.au, lists upcoming events and partnership opportunities, offering a portal for industry participants to engage.

In sum, the WAIFC launch represents a formal, tangible commitment by Western Australia to deepen ties with India’s dynamic film and creative sectors. By serving as a bridge for co‑production, talent exchange, investment and cultural collaboration, the council builds on a historical connection that dates back to the early 20th century and sets the stage for a sustained partnership across the screen and creative industries.