The picturesque regional town, with a population of less than 2000, has a rich film history. 

The streets have been splashed across screens before, featuring in cult films including the original Mad Max. 

The six part mini-series will be aired as a children’s program on ABC3.

The cult book was picked up as a mini-series after a sequel to the popular 2010 feature film was canned.

It tells the story of a group of teenagers separated from their families following an invasion of their country.

They are subsequently thrown into unprecedented conflict.

The Ambience Entertainment produced series will be shot at a number of different Victorian locations and is financed by the ABC, Screen Australia, Film Victoria and Ingenious Investments.

Hepburn Shire Councilllor Neil Newitt said around 30 Clunes locals would be extras in the mini-series which would provide a significant economic boost.

“All the accommodation is filled with film crews, so we will see a boost from that,” Cr Newitt said.

“But also, if the series is successful, people will come back to see the place where scenes from their favourite book were shot.”

Cr Newitt said the town’s main street was “a gem” for directors and photographers because it was timeless.

“The powerpoles are underground so it could be from any era,” Cr Newitt said.

More than 35 years after Mad Max was filmed, movie buffs are still keen to visit the sport where Mel Gibson kick-started his career.

Ambience Producer, Michael Boughen, who was involved in the feature film, said he hoped teenagers would connect powerfully with the characters.

“The series is designed to resonate with teenagers and families and to be a highly engaging drama, driven by real characters facing realistic challenges,” Mr Boughen said.

ABC head of children’s television Deirdre Brennan was proud to be working with Ambience Entertainment to bring to life well-loved Australian characters in a series shot in iconic parts of Victoria.

“Tomorrow When The War Began has connected to so many Australians since the book was first published in 1993,” Ms Brennan said.

The series will star Molly Daniels as Ellie, Jon Prasida as Lee, Narek Arman as Homer, Madeleine Madden as Corrie, Fantine Banulski as Robyn, Keith Purcell as Chris, Madeleine Clunies-Ross as Fi and Andrew Creer as Kevin.

Filming at various location started with week, with crews expected to head to Clunes later this month.

The series will air on ABC3 in 2016.