Government to introduce local content obligation for streaming services with more than 1 million subscribers

Government to Implement Local Content Requirements for Streaming Services

Nearly 18 months after the original deadline passed, the Federal Government is advancing legislation to enforce Australian content quotas for streaming platforms.

New Legislation Details

The upcoming law will require streaming services with over one million Australian subscribers to allocate at least 10% of their total Australian expenditure, or 7.5% of their revenue, towards producing new local drama, children’s programs, documentaries, arts, and educational content.

Background and Delays

Arts Minister Tony Burke first announced a July 1, 2024 deadline in the National Cultural Policy for these obligations. Following this, the government conducted extensive consultations with streaming companies, free-to-air broadcasters, and industry guilds.

By the end of 2023, progress seemed on track as the government sought industry feedback on two models for quotas: one based on revenue, the other on expenditure. However, despite a Senate committee’s interim report urging the urgent introduction of these quotas, the deadline passed without implementation.

Factors Contributing to Delay

The Australia-United States Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA) was believed to be a key factor causing the postponement.

Recent Developments

The issue gained renewed attention when independent MP Zali Steggall presented the Change.org petition "Save Australian Stories" in parliament last week.

“The quotas must be introduced as a priority to protect Australian stories and culture,”

reflecting the government’s ongoing cultural commitment.

Author's Summary

The government is set to enforce local content quotas on major streaming services, aiming to boost Australian cultural production despite earlier delays linked to trade agreements.

IF Magazine — 2025-11-05