Australia is to introduce laws requiring streaming platforms to invest a minimum amount of money in homegrown content, the government said on Tuesday.
Platforms such as Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime will be required to contribute at least 10% of their local expenditure or 7.5% of revenue on Australian content. This legislation will also apply to drama, documentaries, arts and educational programs.
Arts minister Tony Burke stated that this measure would help protect local acting jobs, with intentions to introduce the legislation in parliament this week.
This initiative aims to ensure that Australian stories can be showcased on streaming services. Burke stated, Since their introduction in Australia, streaming services have created some extraordinary shows. This obligation will ensure that those stories – our stories – continue to be made.
Despite previous delays due to US trade agreement concerns, the government is keen on implementing these rules. The Australian Writers Guild and Screen Producers Australia have welcomed the announcement.
Recent Australian productions available on platforms like Netflix include shows like Heartbreak High and Territory. However, the local creative industry has faced challenges in recent years, particularly due to the production slump during the COVID-19 pandemic.
