Michelle Rowland to introduce Bill to ensure ‘equitable access’ to free-to-air TV, major sporting events

The prominence of free-to-air networks on smart televisions will be protected under a shakeup of Australia’s media laws. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland will on Wednesday introduce a Bill to ensure free-to-air services — including Seven, Nine, 10, ABC and SBS — remain accessible and visible amid the rise of streaming platforms. The legislation will establish a new “prominence framework”, which will require manufacturers of smart televisions to reduce the risk of free-to-air apps being crowded out by content from Netflix, Stan and Disney. The framework would not stop manufacturers from promoting streaming services but is designed to level the playing field for local networks. Ms Rowland last week said prominence rules were needed to fix a “power imbalance” that has made it harder for households to find free-to-air content. Draft regulations outlining the details of the proposed new requirements will be published in early 2024. The Government also wants to update the anti-siphoning scheme that ensures major sporting events are broadcast on free-to-air. Streaming services are not subject to the scheme, meaning there are no laws stopping them from acquiring the rights to events ahead of free-to-air broadcasters. The Government wants to shut this loophole to avoid the risk of iconic sporting events slipping behind a paywall. “This Bill promotes equitable access by Australians to free TV and sports coverage in the age of streaming services and connected TV devices,” Ms Rowland said. “These changes help support a strong and sustainable media industry that delivers for all Australians.” Seven West Media - the parent company of The West Australian - welcomed the proposed changes. “The new prominence framework ensures that free local TV services are easily discoverable and acknowledges the importance of these service in a modern TV environment,” Seven West Media managing director and chief executive officer James Warburton said. “We appreciate the Government updating the anti-siphoning scheme to ensure online services cannot acquire the free-to-air TV rights before the broadcasters have had an opportunity. “However, by not including the free digital rights, Australians who only access free TV services through the internet may be deprived of free iconic Australian sports. “We look forward to working constructively with the Government to ensure these reforms are truly modernising and take into account how Australians are watching and will be watching TV into the future.”