Australia - public location filming law
 

Hi folks,

Searching through the forums, I know there have been some discussion about similar topic. However, I wanted to know from local videographers in Australia about laws on filming in public/private location.

Recently, I went filming on a beach. I was worried if people feel uncomfortable with me carrying a Z1 around. Do I need a permit on a beach? What about parks? Streets? etc.. When do you really need a permit?

Next week, I am trying to shoot in a library. I was thinking of using some 'blind spots' and film quietly. But worried if they take legal action towards me. So I tried emailing them and still waiting for a response.

NOTE: I'm trying to do filming only for Pre-Wedding video. And most of the scenes will not involve conversation at all, require limited to non-lighting and only for about 30 seconds footage. And most probably won't cause much disruption to the surroundings (like cable running through, etc).

Cheers, :)


John

Regardless of the public streets, you'll need permission to film in a library. I'd phone rather rely on e-mails.

Hi Johannes...........................
 

Check the web site/ phone your local city/ district council.

They should have a film liaison section responsible for issuing permits for shooting on Council property, which is undoubtedly what the library will be, if it's public.

They should also be able to give you the low down on where else/ under what circumstances permits are/ are not required.

Else front up to the library and ask a real human being, I'm sure they have them there.

As you obviously don't fall into the Steven Spielberg category of film maker, I'd say you could shoot just about anywhere else but Council property with no hassles whatsoever, but I wouldn't take my word for it - the paranoia fairy sure does get about.


CS

Thanks guys. The library that I chose to do is a university's library. Now, I'm not too sure if filming in a university ground requires permission too.

I've emailed the library (rather than phone) for now so that I have a written record if they'd allow me. I'll make a phone call if there's no response within few days.

Hi again..................
 

Well, if it's the university, you'll probably need to ask the uni admin people, not the library itself.

I know permission is required to film IN any Otago University buildings but NOT the grounds, which are considered public property, tho' if you really got up someone's nose they can legally sling you out on your ear.


CS

Filming in university buildings here would involve the administration, the PR department or press officer may be a good start if they have one. If not phone and ask who you should contact - a lot of this kind of organising is done by phone and then ask for an e-mail. Although, I'd expect they would let the library know your shooting time and give you a contact person there.

this is a link to a good article on photogs rights in australia

Legal Information : Street Photographers Rights