Filming Ethics, Cultural & Drone Policy

ShowcasingOz TV is committed to filming responsibly across Australia—respecting wildlife, culture, communities, landscapes and aviation rules at all times. This policy explains how we approach ethical filming, location permissions and drone operations.

1. Scope of This Policy

This policy applies to all filming undertaken by ShowcasingOz TV, including:

• Series content filmed on location in towns, attractions and accommodations
• Behind-the-scenes footage, social media content and promotional material
• Drone footage captured under relevant aviation rules

2. Wildlife & Animal Welfare

We follow a strict “do no harm” approach when filming wildlife and animals.

• No handling of wildlife unless approved, supervised and clearly permitted by qualified staff.
• No chasing, baiting, cornering or otherwise disturbing animals for the sake of footage.
• No entry into rehabilitation, quarantine or restricted enclosures without explicit authorisation.
• No use of drones close to nesting sites, colonies or sensitive habitats.
• We follow all instructions from rangers, carers and sanctuary staff immediately.

3. Environmental Responsibility

ShowcasingOz TV aims to minimise its environmental footprint while filming:

• We adhere to leave-no-trace principles at all locations.
• No interference with natural features, vegetation or waterways for the purpose of filming.
• All litter, equipment and materials are removed when we leave a site.
• We respect any local fire bans, seasonal restrictions or park rules in place.

4. Cultural & Indigenous Respect

We recognise the profound cultural significance of many locations featured in our series, particularly those on Aboriginal land or with deep First Nations connections.

4.1 Traditional Owners & Elders

• We seek guidance from Traditional Owners, Elders or appointed cultural representatives wherever possible before filming on or about culturally significant sites.
• Cultural protocols, restrictions and requests from Traditional Owners always take precedence over filming plans.
• Where requested, we avoid filming specific sites, ceremonies, artworks or stories.

4.2 Sacred Sites, Art & Ceremonies

• No filming of sacred sites or restricted cultural areas without explicit permission.
• No close-up filming of Indigenous artwork or artefacts where reproduction is restricted.
• No recording of ceremonies, cultural practices or storytelling without prior consent.

4.3 Representation & Storytelling

• We aim to represent communities and cultures respectfully, focusing on authenticity and avoiding stereotypes.
• Where appropriate, we may provide preview cuts for cultural sensitivities (not for editorial control).

5. Location Permissions

We only film in locations where we have a lawful right or permission to do so.

• Private Property: We obtain consent from owners or authorised managers before filming on-site.
• Businesses & Attractions: Filming occurs under explicit approval from management.
• National Parks & Reserves: We comply with park rules, permits and conditions.
• Restricted Areas: We do not film in areas marked as closed, dangerous, or culturally restricted.

6. Drone Operations & CASA Compliance

ShowcasingOz TV operates drones in accordance with Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) regulations and any applicable local rules.

• Drones are not flown in restricted or prohibited airspace without appropriate approvals.
• No flying above the legal altitude limits set by CASA.
• No flying directly over people, crowds or public roads.
• No drone operations near airports, helipads or aerodromes unless permitted.
• No drones over private property without consent from the owner or manager.
• No drone use where signage explicitly prohibits it (e.g. certain national parks, wildlife areas).

We follow all additional instructions imposed by land managers, councils or park authorities regarding drone activity.

7. Children & Vulnerable People on Camera

Extra care is taken when filming children or vulnerable individuals:

• We seek consent from a parent, guardian or responsible adult where a child is clearly featured.
• We avoid sharing personal or identifying information about minors.
• We do not knowingly film children in compromising, unsafe or distressing situations.

8. Safety & Risk Management

The safety of our crew, guests and the public is a priority.

• We do not encourage or depict unsafe behaviour for the sake of entertainment.
• We follow reasonable safety advice from operators, rangers and authorities.
• We avoid filming in conditions that pose undue risk (extreme heat, storms, flood zones, fire risk).

9. Requests for Content Review or Takedown

If you are a landowner, operator, Traditional Owner, or community representative and have concerns about how a location, person or cultural element has been depicted, you may contact us to request review or removal.

Please email showcasingoztv@gmail.com with:

• A link to the content in question
• A brief explanation of your concern (e.g. cultural, safety, privacy, permissions)
• Any supporting information or documentation

We will review all genuine concerns in good faith and aim to respond within a reasonable timeframe.

10. Contact Us

For questions about this Filming Ethics, Cultural & Drone Policy, please contact:

ShowcasingOz TV
Email: showcasingoztv@gmail.com
Registered in Tasmania, Australia

Last updated: December 2025