South Australia is set to benefit from a $10 million economic injection with the production of the third season of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) series.
Previously filmed in Broken Hill, the award-winning drama series has shifted its filming location to South Australia for the first time. Filming is currently underway at several locations, including the South Australian Film Corporation’s Adelaide Studios, the RFDS base in Port Augusta, and in Quorn. The move from Broken Hill was due to construction work at the airport and RFDS facilities.
The production of this TV Week Logie award-winning show, which won Best Drama Program in 2024, promises to generate substantial local employment. It is projected to create over 450 job opportunities across a variety of roles, including positions for cast, crew, and extras. Importantly, the production will feature a predominately South Australian crew, with key positions such as the 10 South Australian Heads of Department already in place.
This project is not only a significant opportunity for the local film and television industry but also for the broader state economy. It is anticipated that more than two thirds of the $10 million budget will be spent on local suppliers and service providers from diverse sectors such as transport, hospitality, retail, and construction. This broad economic benefit will extend beyond the immediate scope of the film production, continuing to support the state’s economy through associated service and supply industries.
The decision to film significant portions of the series in the picturesque Flinders Ranges is expected to further benefit the region, especially in terms of tourism. Following the broadcast, an increase in visitors to the areas showcased is anticipated, which will provide ongoing economic benefits to the local community.
Andrea Michaels, Minister for Arts, said, “It is very exciting to welcome RFDS to South Australia. Securing this amazing series is a huge win for the state, injecting $10 million into South Australia’s economy and creating hundreds of jobs for our local screen sector while showcasing Adelaide and our incredible Flinders Ranges to a national audience. It demonstrates that South Australia is the perfect home for Australian television production.”
The production involves major investment from Screen Australia, the Seven Network, and the South Australian Film Corporation. The series is produced by Endemol Shine Australia and will feature the return of the main cast, including Emma Hamilton, Stephen Peacocke, and Rob Collins among others. It is expected to premiere on Channel 7 and 7plus in 2025.
SAFC Chief Executive Kate Croser commented on the production’s significance to the state, “We are thrilled to welcome Endemol Shine to South Australia for the first time with this Australian drama series, strengthening our state’s international reputation as the premier location for Australian stories on screen.”
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