The Australian government is looking at a range of ways to make global streaming giants create local programs.
👉 Background: By June last year, Australians were paying for 23.4 millionstreaming subscriptions. We’re talking over 6 million subscribers on Netflix, 2.6 million on Disney+ and Stan has around 2.4 million... Not to mention, Apple TV+, Binge, Kayo and Paramount.
👉 What happened: Now, the Australian government is looking at a range of ways to make global streaming giants create local programs. The leading option is a model that forces streaming services to allocate 20 per cent of Australian subscription revenue to Australian drama, documentaries and children’s programs.
👉 What else: And no, the streamers can’t include sport or existing local programs as part of this requirement - which means s whole lot of new Australian programs.
💡To create a level playing field, you need consistent regulations across all competitors. Unlike the commercial free-to-air broadcasters and Foxtel, streaming giants haven’t been regulated in the same way in Australia…yet
💡Right now, free to air broadcasters in Australia need to broadcast a minimum of 55% Australian programing between 6am and midnight. But there aren’t any obligations on streaming companies.
💡With such a large number of Australians watching shows via streaming services, this could pose a threat to the local stories being produced and local talent being discovered.
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