Perth Film Studios has appointed Tom Avison as its Chief Executive Officer following an extensive global recruitment search, signaling a significant step forward in the development of Western Australia’s screen production infrastructure.

Avison brings nearly two decades of experience in the screen sector, including leadership roles in some of the UK’s most renowned studios. Currently the Director of Operations at Sky Studios Elstree in London, he has overseen operations for major productions such as Wicked, Paddington 3, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, and Jurassic World: Rebirth. 

Prior to his tenure at Sky, he held senior positions at 3 Mills Studios and Twickenham Studios, further solidifying his reputation as a leader in studio management and operations.

Home Fire Director Howard Cearns highlighted the significance of Avison’s appointment:

“Tom Avison is a proven leader in the screen industry with expertise in studio management, sales, production, and post-production. His experience at Sky Studios Elstree—one of the UK’s largest and most advanced facilities—demonstrates his ability to drive operational excellence and cultivate a collaborative studio environment. We are thrilled to welcome him to lead Perth Film Studios as we prepare for our 2026 opening.”

Avison himself is eager to take on the new role, recognizing the potential of Perth Film Studios and the wider WA screen industry:

“I have always been drawn to opportunities that are rich with creative energy. After visiting Perth and engaging with key stakeholders, it became clear that what is happening with Perth Film Studios is something truly special. The combination of a world-class studio facility and a fast-growing screen sector made this an opportunity I couldn’t resist. I am honored and excited to be joining the team.”

Strengthening Industry Ties with James Grandison’s Appointment

In addition to Avison’s appointment, Home Fire has named James Grandison as Business and Industry Development Director. Grandison, who has been consulting with Home Fire, now officially joins the leadership team to drive industry engagement and support incoming productions.

With an extensive background as a producer and production manager, Grandison’s credits include The Surfer starring Nicolas Cage, Picnic at Hanging Rock, Mystery Road: Origin, Blueback, and Sweet As. His experience spans both location-based and studio productions, making him an invaluable asset to the development of WA’s film industry.

Home Fire’s Howard Cearns emphasized the importance of Grandison’s role:

“James will be instrumental in fostering industry relationships and ensuring WA remains film-friendly. His collaboration with Screenwest, Ausfilm, and the WA State Government will be key to attracting major productions. Having worked with James already, we know the respect he commands in the industry and the value he will bring to Perth Film Studios.”

Building Momentum for Western Australia’s Screen Industry

Screenwest CEO Rikki Lea Bestall expressed enthusiasm about the growing confidence in WA’s screen sector, bolstered by the addition of experienced industry professionals like Avison and Grandison:

“Western Australia has seen consistent growth in screen production, and the arrival of Perth Film Studios is a game-changer for the sector. We look forward to working closely with the team to attract and support local, national, and international productions.”

As Perth Film Studios continues to gear up for its 2026 launch, recruitment for studio operations management and staff remains underway. Interested candidates can direct inquiries to [email protected].

With a world-class studio facility on the horizon and a leadership team poised to drive its success, Perth Film Studios is set to establish Western Australia as a premier destination for global screen production.

About Perth Film Studios

Perth Film Studios offers purpose-built infrastructure and services to support the production of feature films, television series, and other audio-visual content. The facility is in Malaga, approximately 25 minutes from the Perth CBD, and only 15 minutes from the domestic and international airport.

The studio’s facilities are designed to cater to the diverse needs of production teams by offering:

• 2 x 20,000 sq ft and 2 x 25,000sq ft sound stages (90,000 total)
• 2 x large workshops
• A 5-acre backlot plus multi use area (“boneyard”)
• Stage annexes containing spaces for costume, make-up, offices, editing, storage and green rooms.