MY TEHRAN FOR SALE

In reply to the Hon. D.G.E. HOOD (18 October 2011) (First Session).

The Hon. R.P. WORTLEY (Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for State/Local Government Relations): The Minister for the Arts has been advised that:

1. The total Government investment in the film was $150,000 from the Adelaide Film Festival Investment Fund and $250,000 from the South Australian Film Corporation. The total budget for the film, which included all flights, accommodation and living costs, was $858,850.

2. The Boards of both the South Australian Film Corporation and the Adelaide Film Festival were fully briefed on the proposed production, and made the funding decision based on the film's merits.

3. The former Premier wrote to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Hon Kevin Rudd MP, to request his urgent assistance in this matter. I am advised that Minister Rudd was fully appraised of the situation, has been very supportive and was in contact with the film's producers to ensure any statements and diplomatic applications made on behalf of the Australian Government were with the full support of the actress' family. I also understand that Minister Rudd has made a direct application to the Iranian government through suitable channels to request the freedom of actress Marziah Vafamehr's [pronounced Mar-zeer Vah-fah-mare].

On 28 October 2011 it was announced that actress Marziah Vafamehr was released from jail after a court appeal reduced the term of the imprisonment sentence.