The one thing the whole world can agree on is we want more Bluey. Australia is ready to make that a law.
This week, the Australian government will formally introduce legislation that would require streamers of a certain scale to spend a percentage of their local revenue on local content. The concept is not new here — this issue was first raised in early 2023 — but the percentages are. The bill was not introduced earlier as the Aussies first waited out the 2024 U.S. presidential election and later feared that its winner, Donald Trump, could counterattack with tariffs.
The legislation would mandate any streaming services with more than a million Australian subscribers must produce Australian drama, children’s, documentary, arts or educational programs — and the streamer must spend 7.5 percent of local revenue on creating local content. The number is much lighter than the 20 percent threshold that had been pushed by Screen Producers Australia. Broadcast and cable television already have similar regulations in place.
“Since their introduction in Australia, streaming services have created some extraordinary shows. This obligation will ensure that those stories — our stories — continue to be made,” arts minister Tony Burke said.
“We want to make sure no matter which platform people are watching, Australian stories are part of their experience,” communications minister Anika Wells said.
