Creative and media

NSW has the largest creative industries economy in Australia, accounting for over 37 per cent of national industry employment.

Creative industries incorporate a wide range of sub–sectors such as design, music, advertising, architecture, publishing, visual and performing arts, IT software and digital and screen content (film and television).

The NSW Government's vision is for NSW to become a global centre for creative businesses, with the industry playing an integral part in enhancing the competitiveness of the State’s economy.

Biggest player

Sydney has the biggest share of employment in the film, music, broadcasting, publishing, games, interactive media, software development, advertising, and industrial and virtual design sectors.

Particular areas of NSW expertise include strong advertising, animation and screen production, with increasing global links to world class games developers.

Digital media hub

Sydney is the leading centre for new media and creative digital content developments. It is the base for companies such as Fairfax, PBL, the ABC, SBS and the commercial television and radio networks.

Sydney is also home to several of the world’s top post–production, digital and visual effects companies and internationally recognised production and post–production companies including Omnilab, KMM, Animal Logic and FremantleMedia (Australia).

Leading institutions

NSW and Sydney have nationally and internationally renowned performance venues (including the iconic Sydney Opera House), museums, galleries, educational facilities and other cultural bodies.

Many of Australia’s major performing arts companies are located here and Sydney captures 45 per cent of total attendances and 50 per cent of national revenue for music and theatre productions.

Regional hot spots

Creative industries also contribute to regional development with creative hot spots including the Northern Rivers and Newcastle.