The Albanese Government committed to a review of the anti-siphoning scheme in the context of the 2022 federal election.

The anti-siphoning scheme — set out in the Broadcasting Services Act 1992 — prevents subscription television broadcasters from acquiring the right to televise an event on the anti-siphoning list until a free-to-air television broadcaster has acquired a right. Events are generally removed from the list 26 weeks prior to their commencement.

The government is seeking feedback on specific proposals for reforms to the anti-siphoning scheme and updates to the anti-siphoning list.

Importantly, this paper identifies the government’s preferred reform model and preferred list option. While this does not reflect a final decision of the Government, it provides all interested parties with an indication of the preferred approach to reform of the scheme and list. The government’s final decision on these matters will be informed by the feedback and comments provided in relation to these reform options.

Submissions close 17 September 2023.