The Minister for Communications announced a consolidated package of media reforms on 6 May 2017, in the lead up to the 2017-18 Budget (see here). One element of this package is a review of Australian and children's content, to consider whether existing measures to support the production and delivery of that content remain fit for purpose.

The review, which is to be conducted jointly by the Department of Communications and the Arts, the Australian Communications and Media Authority and Screen Australia, will provide options to Government on the most effective mechanisms to support Australian drama, documentary and children's content. On 23 May 2017, the terms of reference for the review were released.

The terms of reference state the review will consider:

  • the economic and social value of Australian screen content to the Australian community;
  • the current and likely future market for Australian screen content production and distribution;
  • whether the Australian Government's current policy settings:
    • are relevant to current industry practice;
    • appropriately target content that requires intervention;
    • ensure an approach that works across a diversity of platforms;
    • promote a sustainable production and distribution sector; and
    • are able to support Australian content on any platform into the future.

The regulations on local content for regional television and regional radio are out of scope of the review.

Although a consultation paper has not yet been released, the Minister has advised that consultation will commence in June 2017. It is intended that the review will be completed, and options for reform presented to the Government, by the end of 2017.

This publication does not deal with every important topic or change in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you have found this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances please contact one of the named individuals listed.