Video Production Pricing Guide: Australia (2025)
Introduction
Video production rates in Australia can feel overwhelming if you’re unsure where to start. From startups to established brands, many struggle with balancing budgets while ensuring their videos deliver real impact.
Having worked on over 200 successful projects, we’ve seen how understanding costs upfront avoids surprises and keeps projects on track.
This guide unpacks everything you need to know to plan your project confidently, helping you understand where your money goes and how to make the most of it.
Understanding Video Production Costs
The cost of video production in Australia varies significantly depending on your requirements, the production company’s expertise, and several other factors. This guide explains how videographers and production agencies typically structure their pricing.
Common Pricing Models
Videographers and production companies in Australia typically charge using these models:
- Hourly or daily rates
- Time, materials, and travel expenses
- Per video
- By production size/video type (low-end, mid-range, high-end)
- By production stage (pre-production, production, post-production)
Getting Accurate Quotes
For the most accurate pricing, create a detailed brief outlining your deliverables and request quotes from at least 3 different production companies.
Typical Pricing Structures
Hourly Rates
For smaller-scale projects, simple graphics, or individual services, videographers and editors in Australia typically charge AUD 100 to AUD 150 per hour. These rates cover professional skills and basic equipment, making this option ideal for quick shoots, simple edits, or single-camera setups.
Day Rates
A video production agency’s rates for full-day production services generally range from AUD 500 to AUD 1,200 per day. This often includes the cost of the videographer, basic equipment, and essential crew members. Larger teams or specialised roles, like drone operators or directors, may increase day rates.
Project-Based Pricing
Many companies offer flat-rate pricing for more complex productions based on the project’s scope. These fees vary depending on video length, number of shoot days, crew size, and post-production needs.
For example, a corporate video production company may charge AUD 2,500 for a half-day shoot or AUD 5,500 for a full-day shoot, including pre-production, location scouting, and editing.
Freelance Videographer Rates
Entry-Level
- Filming: AUD 350/day
- Editing: AUD 50/hour
- Typically 1 year of experience or recent graduates
Mid-Range
- Filming: AUD 700-1,300/day
- Editing: AUD 70-90/hour
- Experienced professionals handling both filming and editing
High-End
- Filming: AUD 2,000/day
- Editing: AUD 110+/hour
- Highly experienced with film and TV industry background
Note: These rates apply to straightforward videos with minimal locations and post-production needs.
Factors Influencing Video Production Costs
Project Complexity
The more intricate your project, the higher the costs. Factors like detailed scripting, storyboarding, and special effects can significantly increase production time and expenses.
For example, straightforward talking-head video footage is far less expensive than a cinematic production with elaborate scenes and CGI.
Video Length
The duration of the video directly impacts production costs. Longer videos require more shooting time, editing hours, and potentially more resources for planning and execution.
A concise 30-second ad is much cheaper than a 10-minute corporate documentary.
Crew & Talent
The size and expertise of the production team can greatly influence the pricing. Hiring experienced directors, videographers, and on-screen talent often comes with higher rates, but it ensures a polished final product. Adding specialists like drone operators or makeup artists also increases costs.
Equipment & Technology
High-end equipment, such as 4K cameras, videography drones, or advanced lighting setups, will increase expenses. Additionally, renting specialised technology for unique shots or effects can add to the overall pricing, though these elements often elevate the production quality.
Location & Travel Expenses
Shooting on location can incur permits, venue rentals, and travel costs.
If the production team needs to travel to multiple locations or work in remote areas, expenses like transportation, accommodation, and meal allowances can quickly add up.
Video Editing & Post-Production Requirements
Editing, sound design, recording, and special effects are critical components of video production and can significantly influence costs. High-end post-production, including colour grading, animation, or intricate soundtracks, requires more time and expertise, leading to higher overall expenses.
Additional Cost Considerations
When budgeting, consider these potential add-ons:
- Animation
- Captions
- Multiple filming locations
- Permits or studio hire
- Voice-over recording
- Expedited turnaround
- Additional revisions
Standard Package Example
For a typical 3-minute corporate video in Sydney, expect quotes ranging from AUD 3,800-5,900, including:
- Planning meetings and script consultation
- 1-2 days of filming
- Professional camera equipment
- Standard lighting package
- Basic editing
- Royalty-free music
- Simple graphics and overlays
- Travel within Sydney metro
Why Simple Videos Still Require Investment
Even “simple” interview videos require significant resources:
- Equipment (camera, tripod, lighting, audio gear)
- Setup and breakdown time
- Multiple takes for non-media-trained subjects
- Professional direction
- Skilled post-production
The Value of a Production Team
For most professional videos, a small crew is recommended over a solo videographer. This typically includes:
- A director to guide interviewees
- Camera operator
- Audio technician
- Lighting specialist
Average Cost Ranges by Video Type
Corporate Videos
Corporate video production typically costs between AUD 5,000 and AUD 15,000, depending on the length and complexity. These videos often include interviews, b-roll footage, and professional editing, with higher-end projects involving larger crews and advanced equipment.
Promotional Videos
Promotional content, such as ads or product showcases as seen in Facebook and YouTube, generally ranges from AUD 3,000 to AUD 10,000. Costs can increase with multiple locations, advanced visual effects, or highly polished post-production to ensure the video grabs attention and aligns with branding goals.
Training Videos
Educational or training videos usually fall between AUD 2,500 and AUD 7,500, depending on the duration and depth of the content. Simple instructional videos cost less, while interactive or multi-module series with animations or subtitles increase the pricing.
Animation & Motion Graphics
Depending on the style and duration, animated videos typically cost between AUD 5,000 and AUD 20,000. 2D animation is generally more cost-effective, while 3D animation, detailed motion graphics, or custom illustrations can push costs toward the higher end of the spectrum.
Additional Expenses to Consider
Licensing & Permits
Costs for music licensing and film permits in a pre-production setting can significantly increase a video production’s pricing. Music licensing fees range from AUD 50 to AUD 1,000, depending on the music track and intended usage.
Film permit expenses vary widely, averaging AUD 200 to AUD 1,500, depending on the film location and its requirements.
Talent Fees
Hiring actors, voice-over artists, or presenters can be priced between AUD 500 and AUD 2,000 per day, depending on their experience and the complexity of the role in the video or film.
While well-known talent, videographers, or specialised voice-over work may require higher rates, they can significantly enhance the professionalism and appeal of the final video.
Set Design & Props
If your project requires custom set design or unique props, expect to budget between AUD 500 and AUD 5,000, depending on the complexity of the setup.
Whether building an elaborate setting or sourcing detailed props, these expenses ensure your video content achieves the desired aesthetic and impact.
2025 Video Production Package Pricing
By Package Type
- Basic: AUD 2,500-5,000
- Standard: AUD 5,500-11,000
- Premium: AUD 11,000-22,000
- Deluxe: AUD 20,000-50,000
- Custom: AUD 60,000+
By Charging Method
- Hourly/Daily: AUD 100/hour or AUD 500/day
- Time/Materials/Travel: AUD 2,500 (half day) or AUD 5,550 (full day), plus AUD 1,500 for equipment and AUD 200 travel fee
- Per Video: AUD 1,500 per simple video
- By Production Size:
- Low-end: AUD 3,500-7,000
- Mid-range: AUD 7,000-15,000
- High-end: AUD 20,000+
- By Video Type:
- Basic corporate: AUD 3,500-6,500
- Promotional: AUD 7,000-15,000
- Commercial: AUD 20,000-50,000
- By Production Stage:
- Pre-production: AUD 5,500
- Production: AUD 7,200 × number of shoot days
- Post-production: AUD 8,500+ (depends on editing hours)
Regional Filming
For projects requiring regional travel (e.g., within NSW), expect quotes of AUD 6,000-9,000, including:
- Standard filming rates
- Travel expenses (vehicle or flights)
- Accommodation
- Equipment transport
How to Maximise Your Video Investment
Investing in video isn’t just about spending money—it’s about getting results. Whether you’re a startup or a scaling brand, here’s how to stretch your budget and maximise ROI:
Avoid overpaying for low-impact content
Not all videos drive engagement. Many brands spend big on production, only to see low conversions. The key? A creative-first strategy that focuses on performance-driven storytelling that turns views into real business results.
Stretch your budget with the 10x content approach
Instead of producing one-off videos, maximise each project by creating multiple variations, cutdowns, and formats—so you get content that works across social, paid ads, sales, and beyond.
Why cheap isn’t always better
Low-cost video might seem appealing, but cutting corners leads to weak creative, poor engagement, and wasted spend. Instead, focus on high-quality production that delivers lasting value.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should a 3-minute video cost in Australia?
The cost of a 3-minute video in Australia typically ranges from AUD 3,000 to AUD 10,000 or more, depending on factors like production complexity, equipment, size, and editing requirements. High-end videos with advanced effects or multiple shooting locations may cost even more.
How much do videographers charge per day in Melbourne?
In Melbourne, videographers generally charge between AUD 500 and AUD 1,200 or more per day, depending on their experience, the scope of the project, logistics, and the equipment included in the package. Specialised videographers, such as drone operators, may charge higher rates.
What are the most expensive elements of video production in Australia?
The most costly elements of corporate video production in Australia are editing (animation and sound design), equipment hire (high-end cameras, drones, or lighting setups), and talent fees (actors, voice-over artists, or presenters). Additionally, film permits and specialised crews can significantly increase costs.
Why is hiring a video production company better than using an in-house team?
While in-house media teams can be valuable, they are often swamped with projects, leading to delays. External video production companies typically deliver faster results with specialised expertise and dedicated focus on your specific project.
Key Takeaways
- On average, video production rates in Australia begin at AUD 100 per hour or AUD 500 per day for small crew or basic shoots.
- Costs are often calculated based on time, materials, and additional expenses for larger or more intricate productions.
- By defining clear objectives, obtaining multiple quotes, and planning efficiently, you can optimise your budget and achieve high-quality results.
Need a Quote?
Contact us today for a customised quote or tender for your specific project requirements.
