Content quotas should bind streaming platforms, not be abolished for commercial networks, says union

Content quotas for children’s content and local drama should be expanded to bind Netflix, Stan, Disney+ and other streaming platforms, not scrapped in response to commercial networks’ threats of protest, says the union representing performers and screen workers.

Last week, Seven West Media signalled it would be prepared to breach its obligation under the Broadcasting Services Act to air 260 hours of children’s programs, 130 hours of preschool programs and 250 points of first-release Australian drama. These quotas should be scrapped by the Morrison government, CEO James Warburton argued, because they stifle commercial networks while not applying to streaming platforms.

“Traditional broadcast television is facing sharp declines in viewer numbers and revenues – yet existing regulations require industry participants to spend millions on shows which fewer and fewer people are watching,” he said.

Now, the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) has responded, calling for content rules to be applied to digital platforms and streaming services, rather than abolished in a move it says will impact the production and visibility of important Australian stories.

“Changes in viewing habits mean there must be reform of content rules to ensure that Australian stories are shown on global streaming services that want access to Australian audiences,” said MEAA chief executive Paul Murphy.

“There needs to be a level playing field regardless of the platform that audiences view programs on.

“But that should not release free-to-air television from its own requirements to produce local and children’s content.”

MEAA’s Paul Murphy

MEAA has been pushing for updates to the rules as part of the Make it Australian coalition, a campaign that pushes for “our stories on screen”.

Following Fletcher’s comments that the government is looking at changing the rules to apply to streaming platforms, MEAA also emphasised the importance of consultation.

“Changes to content rules have the potential to have huge impact on the creatives, performers, technicians and businesses who make up the Australian screen production industry,” Murphy added.

“The government needs to make sure any proposed changes won’t be a wrecking ball to an important industry that is in many ways Australia’s voice to the world.”

Seven’s threats followed the media company reporting a $67m half0year loss. Nine, which won the 2019 ratings year, reported a 9% drop in profits, while both networks also flagged they would pull back investment in international content and one-off sporting events.