Government to Introduce Local Content Obligation for Streaming Services
Nearly 18 months after missing its original deadline, the Federal Government is pushing forward with new Australian content requirements for major streaming platforms.
Key Legislative Measures
The upcoming legislation will compel streaming services with more than one million Australian subscribers to allocate at least 10% of their local expenditure—or 7.5% of their revenue—to original Australian productions. These include drama, children’s programming, documentaries, arts, and educational content.
Background and Consultation Process
Arts Minister Tony Burke initially proposed a July 1, 2024 start date for these obligations as part of the National Cultural Policy. The announcement set off extensive consultations among streaming companies, free-to-air broadcasters, and guilds. By late 2023, progress seemed promising, with the government seeking feedback from the industry on two potential models—one based on revenue and the other on expenditure.
Policy Delays and Contributing Factors
“The impact of the Australia–United States Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA) was thought to be one of the main reasons for the delay.”
Despite a Senate committee’s interim report urging that content quotas be prioritized, the original July 2024 deadline was missed. Trade considerations under the AUSFTA were cited as a major obstacle.
Public and Political Pressure
The issue resurfaced in parliament last week when independent MP Zali Steggall presented the Change.org petition titled
“Save Australian Stories.”The campaign highlights growing public demand for stronger local storytelling representation on global streaming platforms.
Author’s Summary
The government is finally enacting long-awaited rules pushing major streamers to fund more Australian stories, reinforcing cultural identity and local creative industries.