Government to introduce local content obligation for streaming services with more than 1 million subscribers - IF Magazine

Government to Enforce Local Content Quotas on Streaming Services

Nearly 18 months after the initial deadline expired, the Federal Government is proceeding with new Australian content requirements for streaming platforms. Upcoming legislation will require streaming services with over one million Australian subscribers to allocate a minimum of 10% of their total Australian spending or 7.5% of their revenue toward producing new local drama, children's, documentary, arts, and educational programs.

Background and Development

This move follows Arts Minister Tony Burke's announcement of a July 1, 2024 deadline in the National Cultural Policy, which triggered broad consultations involving streamers, free-to-air broadcasters, and industry guilds. By late 2023, the government sought industry input on two proposal models—one based on revenue and the other on expenditure.

Senate Committee and Trade Agreement Impact

Although a Senate committee's interim report on the National Cultural Policy urged prompt implementation of these quotas, the deadline passed without enactment. Delays were partly attributed to concerns related to the Australia-United States Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA).

Recent Developments

The topic gained renewed attention when independent MP Zali Steggall introduced the Change.org petition, Save Australian Stories, in parliament last week, emphasizing public demand for protecting local content.

"Save Australian Stories"

Author's summary: The Australian government is now set to require major streaming platforms to invest significantly in local content, overcoming previous delays caused by trade agreement concerns and industry negotiations.

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IF Magazine IF Magazine — 2025-11-04

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