The Albanese Labor Government will introduce an Australian content obligation on streaming services, making sure that no matter what screen you are watching from, you have guaranteed access to Australian stories.
Legislation to be introduced in Parliament will mandate streaming services with more than one million Australian subscribers will need to invest at least 10 per cent of their total expenditure for Australia - or 7.5 per cent of their revenue - on new local drama, children's, documentary, arts and educational programs.
This will give vital support to our domestic screen sector and arts workers by ensuring quality local stories continue to be produced in Australia.
This delivers on our commitment in the National Cultural Policy, Revive, to set local content requirements on streaming services.
Revive recognises that Australia's people and their stories are our greatest cultural asset. Australian stories help shape our national identity, define who we are and make us recognisable on the international stage.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke:
"We should never underestimate how important it is for Australians to see themselves on screen. It helps us to better understand ourselves, our neighbours better and allows the world to see us.
"We have Australian content requirements on Free to Air television and pay television, but until now, there has been no guarantee that we could see our own stories on streaming services.
"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.
"These platforms are having no problem getting their content into Australia.
"With this legislation we'll be able to ensure that no matter which remote control you're holding, Australian stories will be at your fingertips."
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Communications, the Hon Anika Wells:
"We want to make sure no matter which platform people are watching, Australian stories are part of their experience.
"Many streamers are already producing great Australian shows like Apple Cider Vinegar, The Narrow Road to the Deep North and Boy Swallows Universe; this announcement makes sure shows like these continue to be part of our national identity.
"I've been to Ludo Studios where Bluey, a Brisbane and Australian icon, is produced and I spoke with the co-founder of Ludo Studios and Screen Producers Australia about the importance of locally produced content.
"Real Australian content like Bluey matters, it connects us to who we are and shares it with the world which is why these laws are so important."
