Parks Australia
Commercial filming, photography, sound or artwork permit
We welcome everyone’s interest in Kakadu - there are so many stories to tell. All commercial film crews, still photographers, artists and sound recorders need to apply for a permit to carry out commercial work in the park. A commercial permit is also required to use an existing image of the park for a commercial purpose. This also applies to media outlets. Click here to view the existing images available for download with permit approval.
If the story has been deemed ‘news of the day’ by the park manager, news media are not required to have a permit. Please check with the park on (08) 8938 1176 or the Parks Australia media team if this applies to you.
Download this form to apply for a permit to conduct commercial filming, photography or art in Kakadu National Park.
Commercial filming, photography or artwork permit application form (PDF - 755.63 KB) | (DOCX - 237.28 KB)
Commercial Image Capture Licence Agreements are better suited to larger or unique image capture projects within the park. These licences can accommodate more complex needs such as working with traditional owners, accessing more remote areas, setting up significant equipment or product placement, promotions and advertising.
Licensed projects typically involve greater involvement from the park than that of a permit holder as they call for larger crews (generally four people or more) and/or require props, sets or other equipment other than recording devices for their project to proceed. Licences are also essential for projects that seek to access a variety of areas in the park, including areas not usually open to the public, or for projects that wish to work in the park for an extended period of time (over five days). Additionally, licensed projects call for greater involvement of Kakadu staff, infrastructure and equipment, in addition to the services of traditional owners.
Register your interest and download these forms to apply for a license to conduct commercial filming, photography or art in Kakadu National Park.
License - Image Capture - Registration of Interest (PDF - 97.44 KB)
Commercial Image Capture and Use License Application (PDF - 1.17 MB)
The use of remote piloted aircrafts (RPAs), including drones, within Kakadu National Park is prohibited except in accordance with a management plan or a permit issued by the park. Permits are not issued for recreational drone use, but applications for RPA use within the park will be considered for commercial or research purposes. Permits issued by the Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife Commission for other NT Parks are not valid in Kakadu.
In most instances, proposals for commercial image capture by drones will not be approved, but drone use may be considered for high-profile projects that have been approved by the Kakadu Board of Management and Kakadu’s traditional owners.
If you believe that your project may qualify, contact the Permits Officer.
Please download and read the below guidelines before undertaking filming and photography with Kakadu National Park.