Government to Introduce Local Content Rules for Streaming Services
Nearly 18 months after the original deadline, the Federal Government is advancing new local content requirements for streaming platforms in Australia.
New Legislation Details
Proposed laws will require streaming services with over one million Australian subscribers to allocate at least 10% of their total Australian spending—or 7.5% of their revenue—toward producing new Australian drama, children’s shows, documentaries, arts, and educational content.
Timeline and Consultations
The policy was first announced by Arts Minister Tony Burke, who set a July 1, 2024 deadline in the National Cultural Policy. This triggered extensive consultations involving streaming platforms, free-to-air broadcasters, and industry guilds.
By late 2023, the government sought industry feedback on two possible compliance models: one based on revenue, the other on expenditure.
Delays and Challenges
Despite recommendations from a Senate committee to prioritize these quotas, the deadline passed without implementation. The Australia-United States Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA) was considered a significant factor in the postponement.
Recent Developments
The issue gained renewed attention when independent MP Zali Steggall presented the
“Save Australian Stories”petition from Change.org in parliament last week.
Author's Summary
The Australian government is moving forward with mandatory local content investments for streaming services, overcoming previous delays linked to trade agreements and industry negotiations.
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