Free-to-air broadcasters have welcomed the federal government's changes to broadcasting laws from last week, arguing television channels will be bolstered with several more hours of local content thanks to a 50% reduction in broadcasting licence fees and lifted restrictions on digital platforms.
The key change is a 50% permanent price cut to broadcasting licence fees, which will allow broadcasters to invest further in local content.
Free-to-air networks' digital channels
will also feature an additional 1,460 hours of Australian content per
network due to the removal of restrictions around screening local
drama, children’s programs and documentaries.
The new laws will be
phased in from 1 January 2013.
The influx of local television will be supported by the government's current 55% minimum Australian content quota on the free network's primary channels.
Industry body Free TV and the telvision networks have welcomed the changes.
Free TV chief executive Julie Flynn said: “Today’s announcements are a welcome first step towards ensuring that all viewers can continue to see quality Australian programming for free in a rapidly changing market.
“The new local content quotas reaffirm broadcasters’ central role in maintaining a strong and vibrant Australian voice at a time when viewers increasingly seek content where and when they want, and on the device of their choice.
“Free TV remains the only media platform that invests in Australian stories, talent and production skills to this level while many other content providers contribute very little and operate in a regulation-free zone.
“With the end of analogue television now just twelve months away, converged media regulation is still a work in progress. We need to ensure a fair and balanced regulatory system that serves viewers’ interests.”
The body claims its 2011/12 annual investment in Australian content was $1.35 billion.
Meanwhile, Network Ten's chief executive and managing director James Warburton said: “We are pleased with the measures announced this afternoon, which are sensible, represent a good outcome for the local production and free-to-air television industries, and give the free-to-air television networks regulatory certainty.
“Although the free-to-air television industry has agreed to a heavier regulatory burden, the changes announced by Senator Conroy will help ensure quality local content continues to prosper on Australian television.
“Commercial television licence fees are still high by global standards, but the reduction announced today recognises the critical role free-to-air television networks play in funding and nurturing the local television production industry.
“Unlike companies in some other media sectors, we are happy to invest – indeed, increase – our investment in local content. In 2012, Ten Network broadcast nearly 190 hours of local drama alone. Our investment in local drama will grow in 2013, when we will introduce our largest and most diverse drama slate ever.
“We look forward to working with the government on its broader Convergence review response, to ensure a level regulatory playing field across all media in the future."
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