Government surrenders to common sense on screen industry ‘reforms’

Minister Paul Fletcher retreats on Foxtel, saves community TV and raises hope on further concessions.

The government’s bill to stroke Foxtel, also known as the Broadcasting Legislation Amendment (2021 Measures No.1) Bill 2021 was finally passed on June 24, missing one important element. Foxtel is not being stroked. 

The proposed change is called NEDE, for New Eligible Drama Expenditure Scheme to reduce Foxtel’s commitment to Australian production from 10% to 5% of its income. 

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David Tiley was the Editor of Screenhub from 2005 until he became Content Lead for Film in 2021 with a special interest in policy. He is a writer in screen media with a long career in educational programs, documentary, and government funding, with a side order in script editing. He values curiosity, humour and objectivity in support of Australian visions and the art of storytelling.