In the National Cultural Policy, Revive: a place for every story, a story for every place, the Australian Government reiterates the 2022 and 2025 election commitment to introduce requirements for Australian screen content on streaming services to ensure continued access to local stories and content. Although subscription video on demand (SVOD) services is currently investing in Australian content, there is no guarantee this level of investment will be maintained. 

Unlike free-to-air commercial television and other subscription television broadcasting services, SVODs are not subject to Australian content requirements. Access to, and the production of, Australian content is inconsistent and not guaranteed. SVODs are the most popular way for Australians to consume online screen content and were used by 69% of Australians in 2024.

This Impact Analysis (IA) considers two options to address investment in Australian content.  

1. Option 1: (status quo): Continue with current voluntary reporting from streaming services with no requirement to invest in local Australian content. Retaining the existing regulatory framework for commercial and subscription broadcasters in their current form.  
2. Option 2: A hybrid model that compels large streaming services to spend at least 10% of their total program expenditure (including global content but excluding news and sport) in Australia on new Australian commissions. Alternatively, streaming services may choose an optional revenue obligation equivalent to 7.5% of revenue.  

A regulatory model requiring SVODs to invest at least 10% of their total program expenditure in Australia (excluding news and sport) on new Australian commissions (Option 2) is considered to be the optimal model.

Assessment of the impact analysis: adequate.