We require extras for a new Australian independant film - "Ricky! - The Movie"

I am hoping that this is not another example of a funded production (actors and crew getting paid) who are seeking to recruit unpaid extras for no other remuneration other than experience and their face on screen for 1/2 a second. I am not objectionable about amateur, student or 'only enough money to cover equipment' endeavours asking people to participate in a benevolent spirit for fun and experience. But I am less enthusiastic about extras being the only ones not paid on otherwise funded productions. For those of you are happy to appear free of charge on such funded projects for fun and experience there are a few things which I think are worth keeping in mind. As a non contracted volunteer you are not eligable for Workcover in the event of you becoming sick or injured as a result of you being on set. Properly contracted (paid) extras are also entitled to be provided with adequate shelter, rest breaks, catering and drinks. There are also regulations regarding how long you can be kept working, the safety of your working environment and what kind of things you can be asked to do. The producer is under no obligation to provide or extend these courtesies to volunteers. Overtime on set attracts overtime pay rates - if you are contracted, but not if volunteering. Extras who are asked to speak dialogue or receive individual direction may also be entitled to an upgrade to bit part performer and paid accordingly. Upgraded performers may then also be entitled to residual payments and a credit. Volunteers are not entitled to this. On a broader scale, recruiting volunteer extras for use in funded productions takes money out of the industry. It denies extras, who have agents, work and income opportunities and also denies agents their commission fees, which is how they live. I suppose the choice to appear as a volunteer is up to the individual. If you do volunteer on this show, I do hope that you indeed have a 'great night out'. Tulipa.