Australian screen content requirement for streaming services

The Australian Content Requirement for Subscription Video On Demand (Streaming) Services is now in effect. The requirement delivers the Australian Government’s commitment in the National Cultural Policy, Revive, to set Australian content requirements for streaming services (the Australian content requirement).

The introduction of an Australian content requirement guarantees expenditure on new Australian programs and ensures that no matter which service Australians are watching, they have greater access to Australian stories.

Streaming services' obligations under the Australian content requirement

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is responsible for administering the requirement. The ACMA has published guidance materials on the operation of the requirement and continues to engage with regulated services as they implement the requirement. Detailed guidance on the requirements for streaming services is available on the ACMA website.

Features of the Australian content requirement

The Australian content requirement means that major streaming services with at least one million Australian subscribers are required to invest at least 10% of their total program expenditure for Australia, or 7.5% of their Australian revenue, on new local drama, children’s, documentary, arts and educational programs.

The Australian content requirement uses the definition of ‘Australian program’ that is the same as in the Broadcasting Services (Australian Content and Children’s Television) Standards 2020 (ACCTS), which currently applies to commercial free-to-air and other subscription television broadcasting services.

Major streaming services with over one million subscribers, and that meet other requirements set out in the legislation, will report annually to the ACMA. Streaming services with between 250,000 and one million paying subscribers must notify the ACMA and provide it with information about the service. However, they will not have an expenditure requirement. 

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