Wildlife in TV, Films or Theatre
Specific written permission is required to use wildlife (whether whole or part, living or dead) in TV or film productions (and advertisements) or in theatrical performances. Specific written authorisation is not required to film wildlife in the wild, provided the wildlife is not in any way confined, controlled or manipulated during filming.
Wildlife must not be taken from the wild for this purpose. If filiming is to take place within a National Park, specific written permission may be required from Parks Victoria. Contact the DSE Customer Service Centre on 136 186.
Application process
Licensed Displayers, Demonstrators or Taxidermists who wish to provide wildlife for use in TV Films or Theatre must obtain the Department's written authorisation beforehand and should allow 6-8 weeks lead time.
Application to use wildlife in TV Theatre or Films (PDF - 105 Kb)
Appropriate themes
Any proposed use of wildlife in TV Films or Theatre should have a conservation theme, promoting animal welfare, ethical treatment of wildlife and responsible pet ownership.
Animal welfare
You must also comply with all requirements of the Code of Practice administered by the Bureau of Animal Welfare (Department of Primary Industries).
Who can supply wildlife for use in TV, films or theatre?
A Wildlife Displayer
A licensed Wildlife Displayer Licence may provide a range of wildlife for use in TV Films or Theatre, in accordance with their licence conditions.
A Wildlife Demonstrator
A licensed Wildlife Demonstrator may only provide those taxa listed in Scedules 3, 4 or 5 of the Wildlife Regulations 2002 or any other taxa which is specified in the Demonstrator’s Licence.
Taxa which may be held under a Wildlife Demonstrator Licence (PDF - 34 KB)
Wildlife Taxidermist
A licensed Wildlife Taxidermist (Type 1) may provide parts or complete specimens of dead wildlife of those taxa listed in Schedule 6 (Part A) and (Part C) of the Wildlife Regulations 2002 for use in TV Films or Theatre.
Taxa which may be held under a Wildlife Taxidermist Licence (Type 1) (PDF - 11 KB)
A licensed Wildlife Taxidermist (Type 2) may provide parts or complete specimens of dead wildlife of those taxa listed in Schedules 3, 4 or 5 of the Wildlife Regulations 2002 (and emus, if obtained from a licensed Emu Farmer), if obtained in accordance with the conditions of their licence.
Taxa - Taxidermist 2 (PDF - 34 KB)
If you wish to discuss your requirements, please contact our Customer Service Centre on 136 186 or by email: customer.service@dse.vic.gov.au
