Commissioning By Streamers In Australia Hits “Bleak” Low 

Commissioning by streamers in Australia has plummeted to a new low, according to a new report published today by the Aussie industry union Screen Producers Australia (SPA). 

The SPA’s report surveyed its members with 80% of respondents citing “Less” or “Much Less” commissioning interest from streaming services compared to last year.

Respondents to the survey quoted a range of negative impacts of the slowdown, including the mental health of crew to the financing of projects, with 54% stating the slowdown had impacted every stage of the production process, from initial meetings to development and into production.

When asked what the most common reason given by the streamers for the slowdown was, the SPA report says respondents named a “global slowdown in investment” as the top reason while several noted “awaiting government regulation” as the true undercurrent that has affected the industry productivity. 

The Australian government has pledged to introduce streaming regulation on July 1. But is yet to table a motion in Parliament, leaving producers in limbo over what shape it will take.

“This data is alarming. With only one month left until the Australian Government’s proposed regulation of streaming services is due to start, it is clear screen producers and the workforce they employ are only just hanging on,” Matthew Deaner, SPA CEO said in a statement.

“Australian audiences need some guarantee of access to Australian stories via online streaming services, just like they have for other services. The screen industry has been extraordinarily patient throughout a lengthy consultation process. Still, we need the Albanese Government to deliver on this important cultural commitment with a robust framework that supports both the industry and audiences now and into the future.”

The SPA, which represents most of Australia’s main producers, previously called for all international streamers to pay a content levy. Productions mounted by international streamers in Australia include Netflix’s Heartbreak High reboot, Disney+‘s drama The Clearing, and Paramount+‘s Last King of the Cross.