Hugh Jackman is set to get back to work for the filming of "The Wolverine" in Sydney next week, after getting a $12.8 million grant from the Australian government.

Jackman, 43, joked that Prime Minister Julia Gillard could have a role in the movie.

"It's not a traditional role; it's a stunt double role for myself," he said.

Ms Gillard visited the film set on Tuesday.

"We just did a quick audition, she's incredible. I don't know if you know about her martial arts background; the movie is set in Japan and she really is very handy with the sword and with the nunchucks," Jackman joked further.

Happy to be home

"I am so happy to be home," the Australian hunk told reporters on the set.

"To be shooting a movie of this magnitude here at home to me is one of the great privileges I've had in my career," he added.

Still loving Wolverine

Jackman first portrayed the role of Wolverine 12 years ago in the 2000 film "X-Men." He described the role as "the backbone of my career."

"I love the character. I still love the character," he said, adding "I've always loved playing it and when I stop loving it I'll stop doing it."

Wolverine's leading lady?

Talks that Jessica Biel will be playing opposite Jackman in the 2013 film have been quashed by director James Mangold.

"The story couldn't be more of a fantasy," Mangold said.

The next "Wolverine" installment is based on a series of comics that detail the clawed man's journeys in Japan.

Hugh Jackman sympathizes with the families and loved ones of those killed in Colorado shooting

Asked about his thoughts on the tragic shooting in Colorado, Jackman said he could only echo the sorrow he feels for the families, the community, for everybody."

"This is just a tragedy on a level that we have experienced in Australia many years ago in Tasmania and it's devastating and I can't comment on (it) anymore than as a human being and my feelings for those people involved," he said.

Best "X-men" script?

"The Wolverine" is scheduled to begin shooting in Sydney on July 30. The film is a sequel to the 2009 film "X-Men Origins: Wolverine."

Jackman, who has read the latest film's script, said:

"I feel like a golfer, always looking for a hole in one and I thought this was the best script we've had."