Press release from ASTRA
The Australian Subscription Television and Radio Association (ASTRA) – the country’s leading subscription TV (STV) body – confirmed today the ASTRA 2012 Conference will be held on 22nd March at the Sydney Convention Centre. Themed Driving Change, the Conference will cover a range of topics focussing on the rapidly evolving and competitive media environment.
ASTRA is pleased to announce Jeff Shell, President of NBCUniversal International will serve as the conference’s keynote speaker. Shell is responsible for overseeing the operations of all NBCUniversal International businesses and identifying and executing international growth opportunities for both NBCUniversal and Comcast Corporation outside the US. Comcast is one of the world’s leading media, entertainment and communications companies and one of the largest video, high-speed Internet and phone providers in the USA. Comcast acquired a 51 percent stake in NBCUniversal from General Electric Co. in early 2011 creating a leading media company that combines world-class content and distribution.
NBCUniversal’s international businesses include: Television Distribution, Television Channels (Universal Channel, Syfy, 13th Street Universal, Diva Universal, Studio Universal, E! Entertainment Television, The Style Network, Golf Channel and CNBC), Television Production, Theatrical Distribution, Home Entertainment and Theme Parks.
“Whilst there is a global shift in consumer viewing habits, subscription services will continue to thrive in this new landscape,” said Shell. “Rapid technological advances now allow consumers many new ways to watch content – and that means more viewers. As the industry evolves, subscription services are best positioned to offer audiences quality content, coupled with an engaging viewing experience.”
“This year’s theme is a reflection of the dramatic change occurring in the media environment both in Australia and globally. In Australia, we are experiencing changes on all levels; through a myriad of innovative technologies, to the way content is being created, distributed and how people are viewing and interacting with TV. While it is an exciting time for the industry, it also brings both complexities and opportunities for existing and emerging sector participants. The 2012 ASTRA Conference will delve into these issues and provide attendees greater insight into what is driving and changing the media landscape,” said Petra Buchanan, CEO of ASTRA.
The 2012 day-long Conference program will highlight opinions from leaders across the industry, allow for discussion and debate through a combination of panel discussions and break-out sessions and provide networking opportunities at the Women in Television breakfast, lunch and cocktail functions.
The ASTRA 2012 Conference will also honour excellence with the ASTRA Pioneer Award – which recognises the inspiration and hard work of a deserving individual, and the ASTRA Industry Excellence Awards – presented for exceptional contribution in the subscription TV marketing and promotion sectors.