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

Government to Introduce Local Content Requirements for Streaming Services

Nearly 18 months after the initial deadline, the Federal Government is advancing legislation to enforce Australian content obligations on streaming platforms. The new rules will require services with over one million Australian subscribers to allocate at least 10% of their total Australian expenditure or 7.5% of their revenue to producing fresh local drama, children’s shows, documentaries, arts, and educational programs.

Background and Legislative Process

These regulations come more than two years after Arts Minister Tony Burke announced a July 1, 2024 deadline as part of the National Cultural Policy. This announcement initiated extensive consultations involving streaming companies, free-to-air broadcasters, and industry guilds.

By late 2023, progress had been made as the government sought industry feedback on two potential models to apply the quotas—one based on revenue, the other on expenditure. However, despite a Senate committee interim report recommending that these quotas be prioritized, the deadline was missed.

Reasons for Delay and Recent Developments

The delay was largely attributed to concerns related to the Australia-United States Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA). The issue regained attention when independent MP Zali Steggall presented the Change.org petition “Save Australian Stories” in parliament last week.

“Legislation to be introduced in parliament will mandate streaming services with more than one million Australian subscribers to invest at least 10 per cent of their total Australian expenditure – or 7.5 per cent of their revenue – on new local drama, children’s, documentary, arts and educational programs.”

These content quotas aim to bolster Australian storytelling and ensure local voices are represented on streaming platforms.

Summary

The government is set to enforce local content quotas on major streaming services, requiring significant investment in Australian programming to support the country's cultural sector and creative industries.

Author’s note: This legislation signals a pivotal step in preserving and promoting Australian stories within the rapidly evolving digital entertainment landscape.

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IF Magazine IF Magazine — 2025-11-05

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