The report is expected to address the Location Offset, children’s TV quotas and imposing local content obligations on Netflix and other streaming services.
The Department of Communications and the Arts, Screen Australia and the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) have launched a consultation paper inviting industry input towards the Australian and Children’s Screen Content Review.
SBS has formally made a pitch for a fully-funded content quota on its primary channel, subject to increased government support.
Australia’s commercial free-to-air broadcasters have asked the government for sweeping changes to local content regulations.
Since 2014 the Federal Government has made numerous policy decisions that benefited sectional interests such as commercial free-to-air broadcasters, the US studios and local service businesses, while neglecting screen producers.
Fifield said the content review is looking for an "identification of a mix of regulation and incentives fit for a multi-platform, highly competitive digital era".
Some producers are dismayed at the Australian networks’ preference for short-run dramas while others believe broadcasters still have an appetite for returning series.