SYDNEY — The Albanese government has announced new legislation that will mandate streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ to invest a minimum of 10% of their Australian expenditure or 7.5% of their revenue into new Australian content. This includes drama, children’s programming, documentaries, arts, and educational content, aiming to bolster the domestic screen industry and ensure continued access to Australian stories.
The move delivers on a key promise in the government’s National Cultural Policy, “Revive”, and addresses long-standing concerns from local creators about the lack of investment in homegrown productions by global streaming giants.
“No matter what screen you’re watching from, you should have guaranteed access to Australian stories,” said Arts Minister Tony Burke.
Key Details
Applies to streaming platforms with over one million Australian subscribers.
Investment must go toward new local content, not existing or imported productions.
Legislation will be introduced in Parliament in late 2025, with implementation expected in 2026.
The quota is lower than the 20% sought by industry advocates but marks a significant regulatory shift.
Australia already enforces local content quotas for free-to-air television, but this will be the first time streaming services are subject to similar obligations.
Industry Reaction
Screen producers and arts organizations have welcomed the move as a step toward leveling the playing field.
Some critics argue the quota is too modest and may not sufficiently stimulate the local industry.
Streaming platforms are expected to adjust their commissioning strategies to comply with the new rules.
Sources:
