When you’re producing a video production in Melbourne, it helps to have a bit of local knowledge. In this post, we thought it might be helpful for some of our readers if we put together our knowledge of Melbourne and the best places to go for everything video production-related.
Buying and Hiring Video Production Equipment
Anybody in the industry will have a story about the time something important broke or malfunctioned just before an important shoot. When you’re shooting in Melbourne, you’ll want to have a list of trusted places that you can source equipment for hire or repair when things go wrong or if you’re travelling light.
Dragon Image sell a wide range of gear and also offers rentals. If you’re creating a corporate video or a smaller production, then this is the place to go. They have a good selection of LED lights and other basic gear for lower-budget shoots.
John Barry is a great place to go to buy a vast range of professional equipment. All the little accessories that are vital on a film shoot, like spare bulbs, gaffer tape, alligator clips and the like, can be found here.
Video Craft is another great resource for high-end gear and a wide range of accessories. Located in Burwood, it comes in handy if you’re shooting out of the city and don’t want to venture into the CBD.
If you’re going to be renting all of your gear, then there are a few places that specialise in just renting equipment.
Video Australasia has a full range of equipment for shooting, lighting and recording sound. They are located fairly centrally in Port Melbourne. If your shoot is on the other side of town, you’ll find a similar range at Ben’s Camera Hire.
Studio Hire in Melbourne
Melbourne offers a good range of studios for you to hire out.
Premiere studios is perfect for small to medium productions, great for blue or green screen productions and nicely located in Port Melbourne. You’ll find a spacious green room for hair and makeup as well as a lounge area for your talent to relax out of the way.
Horizon Films also offer studios but they come with the added option of providing a crew and video equipment.
Docklands Studios is great for large productions and has housed some big budget productions.
Video Production and Film Bodies
Depending on the scale of the project you’re undertaking you may find the need to contact some of the following film bodies.
Film Victoria is where to go to find government incentives and acquire the relevant film permits you may need. They also have a Film Friendly PDF you can download that’s full of information on shooting in public spaces.
City of Melbourne is another resource you may need to use. If your film requires a permit, then there is an online form you can submit with the relevant documentation. Their site states that they endeavour to respond to these permits within 48 hours.
The Australian Video Producers Association is another film body that’s worth knowing about if you’re planning a large production or looking to network. While there are several benefits to becoming a member you’ll find a directory on their website that will help you get in contact with industry people.
Casting Agents
If you’re looking for local talent then there are a few places we can suggest you begin with. BGM has some recognisable local talent in their books, with a section specifically for presenter/corporate roles. Ripleys Management is another one to consider if you need extras or child actors.
Catering
We all know a crew will work harder when they’re kept well fed and watered. There are a few companies in that cater specifically for video productions. Going Gourmet has an impressive menu, provide buffet lunches for large crews that need schedule flexibility but also offer tailor made platters for your talent should they require specialty items.
Traffic Management
If your project is big enough that you require traffic management, then Filcon Safety Group has experience working in film and video productions. Monjon is another provider of traffic management and site security.
This should be a good base to start you out. If you’re planning a production in Melbourne and want to work with a local crew with years of experience, then contact DreamEngine today.
Video Production Melbourne – Frequently Asked Questions
Do you help visiting crews produce videos in Melbourne?
Yes. If you are travelling to Melbourne for a shoot, we can provide a local crew and handle planning, locations, logistics, filming, and post-production so the day runs smoothly.
Can Dream Engine supply or organise equipment hire in Melbourne?
Yes. Depending on the scale of the shoot, we can supply our own kit and also organise additional camera, lighting, grip, and audio equipment through trusted local suppliers.
Can you organise studio hire in Melbourne?
Yes. We can recommend studios based on your needs, such as green screen, interview setups, product filming, or larger production requirements, and manage the booking and logistics.
Do we need permits to film in Melbourne?
Sometimes. Permits depend on location, crew size, equipment footprint, traffic impact, and whether the shoot is in a public space. We can advise early and help you navigate the requirements.
Can you organise local talent and presenters?
Yes. If your project needs presenters, actors, extras, or voiceover, we can help source talent through local casting networks and manage the process.
Can you arrange production catering and on-set logistics?
Yes. For full-day shoots and larger crews, we can arrange catering and support logistics so the shoot stays on schedule and the crew is looked after.
Do you provide production support for larger shoots, such as traffic management?
For larger productions, yes. If your shoot requires traffic management or site safety support, we can help coordinate specialist providers and ensure requirements are met.
What is the easiest way to plan a Melbourne video shoot with Dream Engine?
Start with a quick conversation about dates, locations, crew requirements, and deliverables. Then we will recommend a practical plan and provide a clear quote. Contact Dream Engine to get started.
Ryan Spanger is the founder and managing director of Dream Engine, a Melbourne-based video production company established in 2002. With more than two decades of experience, Ryan has helped leading Australian businesses, government departments, and non-profits communicate their message with clarity and impact through video. He’s known for his strategic approach, reliable process, and commitment to producing videos that deliver measurable results.
