An independent MP is advocating for the reinstatement of Australian screen content quotas, seeking to place the issue back on the federal government’s agenda. These quotas, which would mandate minimum spending on Australian content by streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+, were initially promised as a component of the national cultural policy introduced in early 2023.
The Australian film and television industry is urging that these streaming companies reinvest a minimum of 20% of their local revenue into Australian productions. However, multiple deadlines set by the government to implement these regulations have not been met, leaving the industry frustrated and without a clear explanation for the delays. Zali Steggall, a teal independent MP, expressed concern over the government’s lack of responsiveness, stating, “We’re at a loss; they’re not very responsive.”
Steggall has launched a petition advocating for these quotas, which has recently amassed nearly 10,000 signatures. During a recent Question Time, Communications Minister Anika Wells acknowledged that the government is still working on the content rules.
One potential hurdle to the proposed legislation is the implications of the Australia-US free trade agreement, which has historically complicated local content rules. Additionally, President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of 100% tariffs on foreign-produced films in the U.S. might affect global streaming productions that include Australian elements. In light of these developments, the Australian government asserts it is monitoring the situation closely, with Arts Minister Tony Burke assuring that the rights of the Australian screen industry will be defended.
Steggall criticized the government’s cautious approach toward trade relations with the U.S., arguing that the local screen industry is being placed at risk. She also highlighted that streaming services utilize the publicly owned National Broadband Network to deliver their content, consuming significant bandwidth without a sufficient contribution to local production.
The ongoing dialogue around these issues reflects a broader concern for the Australian cultural landscape, emphasizing the necessity for an equitable system that ensures local content remains a priority in the global streaming market. Such a move would not only bolster the Australian film and television industry but also enrich the diverse tapestry of stories that define the nation’s cultural identity.
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