Zaheer Darbar – Entertainment Editor
Nick Hayes Report: Indian Films Outshine Australian Cinema as Multilingual Audiences Redefine Box Office Trends Down Under: Indian films have officially outperformed Australian productions at the Australian box office between 2021 and 2025, marking a major cultural and commercial turning point in the nation’s entertainment landscape.
According to industry analyst Nick Hayes (www.nickhayes.com.au), Indian cinema’s steady growth and audience loyalty have reshaped the way Australians experience films. Once considered niche, Hindi, Tamil, and Punjabi-language movies have now become a mainstay of the Australian film market, often drawing larger crowds than local releases.
The Rise of Indian Cinema in Australia
In recent years, Indian filmmakers have strategically tapped into Australia’s growing multicultural population. Frequent releases, powerful storytelling, and community-driven promotions have helped Indian films secure a strong and consistent theatrical presence across major cities.
As a result, Indian-language films now account for nearly 4% of total box office revenue—a figure that surpasses the earnings of locally produced Australian films during the same period.
A Multilingual Nation, an English-Only Screen
While Indian cinema continues to thrive, the report highlights a significant gap in screen diversity policies. Despite the fact that one in five Australians speaks a language other than English, foreign-language films receive minimal representation in mainstream cinemas.
Hayes emphasizes that this disparity limits both audience choice and creative opportunity. “Our cinema screens don’t yet reflect who we really are as a nation,” he explains. “The success of Indian films shows there is a strong appetite for diverse storytelling.”
Why Indian Films Connect
Cultural resonance, emotional depth, and relatable narratives have made Indian films a natural favorite among not just South Asian audiences but also mainstream Australian moviegoers seeking vibrant, inclusive stories. Blockbusters like RRR, Jawan, and Pathaan have drawn mixed audiences, uniting people across backgrounds and age groups.
Film festivals and local community screenings have further amplified interest, positioning Indian cinema as both a cultural bridge and a commercial powerhouse in the Australian market.
The Road Ahead
The report urges Australia’s film authorities to embrace the reality of a multilingual nation by supporting policies that promote equitable screen representation. Expanding distribution for non-English films and recognizing the contribution of multicultural cinemas could boost industry revenues while strengthening cultural cohesion.
As Indian films continue to dominate the charts, the message is clear — diversity sells, and audiences are ready for stories that reflect the full spectrum of Australia’s identity.
