In a landmark decision for the state's creative sector, global streaming giant Netflix has officially selected Western Australia as the filming location for its upcoming television drama, Breakers. The series, which commenced production this week in the picturesque South West region, marks Netflix's first major production venture in Western Australia.
A Major Economic Boost for WA
The eight-episode series is being produced by Clarkenwell Films, known for the hit series Baby Reindeer, in collaboration with BBC Studios Productions. This project stands as the largest production ever to take place in Western Australia, with an estimated economic injection of $19 million into the local economy. The production is expected to provide significant opportunities for local talent and businesses.
Star-Studded Cast and Intriguing Plot
Breakers will feature Antony Starr, acclaimed for his role in The Boys, portraying a charismatic yet enigmatic leader of a surfing community. According to an official release, the series follows two best friends who embark on a backpacking adventure across Australia. Their journey leads them into a seemingly idyllic community of surfers, overseen by Starr's mysterious character.
Timing Aligns with Studio Completion
This significant announcement follows closely on the heels of the successful completion of the Perth Film Studios. Although Breakers is not scheduled to film at this new multi-million dollar facility, it represents the first of several anticipated productions set to be announced for Western Australia in 2026. The timing underscores a growing momentum in the state's screen industry.
Local Industry Enthusiasm
Screenwest Chief Executive Officer Rikki Lea Bestall expressed delight at Netflix's choice, stating, "Screenwest is delighted to welcome Netflix to Western Australia for the first time. Breakers provides a fantastic opportunity for Western Australian heads of department, crew, and cast to work on a prestige series and continue developing their careers right here in our South West."
Creative Team and Production Details
The series is penned by writer Pete Jackson, known for works such as The Death of Bunny Munro and Somewhere Boy. Directing duties are shared by Mary Nighy, director of Say Nothing and Industry, and Ng Choon Ping, recognized for What It Feels Like For A Girl and Femme. Production is slated to conclude in June, with Netflix planning a global release thereafter.
Government Support and Future Prospects
Breakers benefits from the WA Production Attraction Incentive, a program designed to attract high-profile, market-driven screen productions to the state. Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk highlighted the opportunity, remarking, "Attracting a production of this scale to Western Australia is a very exciting opportunity for the local screen industry. Production kicking off for a project of this scale on the back of Perth Film Studios reaching completion last week shows our screen industry is going from strength-to-strength."
This development not only showcases Western Australia's stunning landscapes as a prime filming location but also signals a robust future for the local creative economy, with more projects expected to follow in Netflix's wake.
