There appears to be very little possibility of the plebiscite bill getting through Parliament, so Mitchell shouldn’t worry too much.
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FREE TV CALLS FOR ABOLITION OF BROADCASTING LICENCE FEES
Free TV today called for the abolition of licence fees to ensure the future sustainability of the industry. The Broadcasting Legislation Amendment (Television and Radio Licence Fees) Bill 2016
implements the reduction of television broadcasting licence fees previously announced by the Government in the May Budget, from 4.5% of gross revenue to 3.375%. At the time, the Government said it would consider further reductions in licence fees later in 2016 as part of a broader package of reforms including the pricing of broadcasting spectrum.
Free TV Chairman Harold Mitchell AC said: “A permanent reduction in licence fees is welcomed by our industry, however further reductions to fees are now urgent if our industry is to remain sustainable.
“In the unrelenting new media environment, we need to ensure that TV broadcasters can continue to invest in great Australian programming and transform their businesses to meet advances in technology and changing consumer viewing habits.
“Licence fees for Australian free-to-air broadcasters must be abolished to ensure that Australia is in line with international best practice.”
Commercial free-to-air broadcasters invest more than $1.5 billion in Australian content annually and support more than 15,000 jobs across the Australian production sector.
“We will continue to work with the Government and Parliament to stress the urgency of licence fee cuts to ensure we can continue to deliver a strong and healthy free-to-air broadcasting service to all Australians,” Mr Mitchell said.
The television and radio industry will want to hope that any abolition of broadcast licence fees isn’t replaced by the imposition of another tax. What does the government mean by the “pricing of broadcasting spectrum”? Will broadcasters have to pay for the spectrum they currently get free?
Free TV has appointed Brett Savill as its new CEO, replacing the outgoing Julie Flynn. Savill most recently worked as a business consultant after spending eight years at BAI Communications, formerly Broadcast Australia, where he led government relations, and was director of strategy and corporate development. He will start work next Monday (October 10).
They don’t get it free at present. That’s what the licence fees are that they want removed.
What they did get free was the additional spectrum that allowed them to broadcast in both analogue and digital but essentially they still have to pay for what they have… even if it is at a much reduced rate now.
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##World-first Freeview FV mobile app launches in November
Freeview today announced that its world-first mobile app, delivering FTA TV channels with just
one click, will launch in November. The new live streaming service is branded Freeview FV and will
deliver TV into viewers’ hands, extending viewing out of the home.
Offering a new TV experience with more than 15 free-to-air channels delivered live from Freeview
members, the free Freeview FV mobile app also features catch-up content from all the free-to-air
networks – on the go, in a single app.
Freeview CEO Liz Ross said: “For the first time globally, an FTA industry has united to create and
deliver a powerful consumer experience. Freeview FV will deliver fantastic choice and convenience
in one place, it is simple and-easy to-use, and it will meet the needs of audiences wherever they
may be. From live streaming news and current affairs during the morning commute to catching-up on a
favourite TV program on the way home, Freeview FV will completely revolutionise access to the
free-to-air TV offering in Australia.”
Freeview FV features will include:
o Live-streaming from all the free-to-air networks
o Access to all catch-up TV
o Browse and search
o A free-to-air TV guide
o Recommendations
Australians’ TV viewing habits have changed dramatically and the launch of Freeview FV in November
is an exciting step forward for Australian FTA TV as the industry continues to evolve and retain
its position as a global leader in innovation.
Freeview FV will be available to all Australians through their mobile devices and will be measured
and reported through OzTAM VPM.
The Freeview FV mobile app brand joins Freeview’s existing hybrid TV service, FreeviewPlus.
Free TV Appoints Brett Savill as CEO
FreeTV Australia today announced the appointment of Mr Brett Savill as Chief Executive Officer.Mr Savill comes to the role with extensive commercial, regulatory and industry experience, having most recently held roles as Head of Government Relations, Director of Strategy and Corporate Development, and Chief Financial Officer for BAI Communications (formerly Broadcast Australia).
Harold Mitchell AC, Chairman of Free TV said, “We are delighted that Brett will be joining FreeTV as CEO. He brings a depth of experience in the media and technology industries.
“This appointment will strengthen our efforts as we continue to advocate for regulatory relief from the world’s most onerous television licence fees and for fair and certain access to spectrum so we can continue to deliver the free services that the public values so highly. Brett’s track record of commercial, technology, and policy experience will be a valuable addition to our industry on these issues,” Mr Mitchell said.
Mr Savill said, “This is an exciting time to join the free-to-air television industry. I am inspired by the special place that free-to-air television continues to have in Australians’ daily lives and the transformation that is underway - with the increasing investment in Australian content, the multi-channel experience and the innovations in programming. I look forward to working with the industry and I am energised by what the future holds.”
Brett will commence with Free TV on 10th October 2016.
About Brett Savill
Brett Savill has had a long career in media and technology. In addition to his time at BAI, Mr Savill was a partner at PwC in the United Kingdom in the Technology, Media and Telecom Practice, advising media and telecommunications companies on commercial and regulatory matters, and he has held various industry consulting roles. Mr Savill has a MBA from the Warwick Business School, Diplomas in Marketing and Banking, and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Kent.
Sounds good
Free TV Australia Celebrates 60 Years Of Television
Free TV Australia today unveiled a campaign to celebrate 60 years of the best free to air television in the world.
Free TV Australia Chairman, Harold Mitchell AC, launched the television commercial at an event at Parliament House, Canberra, attended by the Prime Minister, the Minister for Communications, Parliamentarians, senior government staff and senior representatives of the television industry, including CEOs of the commercial free-to-air networks.
The event was hosted by Sandra Sully (Network Ten), Mel Doyle (Seven Network) and Karl Stefanovic (Nine Network).
Mr Mitchell said: “We are launching this commercial to celebrate the economic and cultural contribution that free to air television has been making for 60 years, and the unique and special place that it continues to hold in the lives of all Australians.
“Sixty years after it started, commercial free to air television is still going strong, with 13 million Australians tuning in every day to be informed, entertained and inspired.”
The campaign, which commences on all commercial free to air networks from this week, captures unforgettable television moments such as the moon landing, the tragedy of 9/11, outstanding local dramas and iconic Australian sporting events.
In its 60th year, free to air television remains the home of Australian content. With an annual investment of more than $1.5 billion in local content, the industry funds 60% of all local television production and employs 15,000 people directly and indirectly.
Given this level of investment, it is no surprise that all of the top 40 most-watched television programs are Australian and a majority of Australians believe commercial free to air television is the most trusted source of news and current affairs.
However, in the face of increasing competition from unregulated companies and a regulatory framework that has not kept pace with changing market dynamics, this investment is under serious threat.
Speaking at the Canberra event, Mr Mitchell said: “The licence fees paid by the commercial free to air networks are completely inconsistent with international best practice.
“They must be urgently addressed so that we can continue to innovate and invest in broadcasting great Australian content for free.
“Australian licence fees are about three and a half times greater than in the next highest market, which is Singapore, and more than 115 times greater than in the United States,” he said.
“Australia needs free to air television and on this milestone diamond anniversary, it is imperative we ensure that we can continue to provide the free service that Australians value so highly.”
The establishment of a Parliamentary Friends of commercial free to air television Group, co-chaired by Melissa Price MP and Tim Watts MP, was also announced at the event. This is an apolitical group whose objective is to promote and support a strong, competitive and vibrant commercial free-to-air television industry in Australia, recognising the cultural and economic importance of the industry and the services it provides to all Australians free of charge.
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Seems more like an excuse to lobby for a licence fee reduction than a real celebration.
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CHANNEL 9 MILESTONE: A big gathering has been held at Parliament House in Canberra to mark the 60th anniversary of television in Australia, with Channel 9 being the first broadcaster.
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FREE TV THE LARGEST INVESTOR IN AUSTRALIAN MADE CONTENT….AGAIN
Screen Australia’s latest Drama Report released today confirms commercial free-to-air broadcasters are again the largest investors in Australian drama production, contributing more than any other sector in 2015/16.
Newly appointed Free TV CEO Brett Savill said, “Our ongoing commitment to the investment in quality Australian drama is unrivalled and we are rightly proud of it. Not only do we produce a great range of Australian dramas that all Australians can enjoy for free, our industry successfully competes on the world stage, exporting a raft of drama shows including Home and Away, 800 Words, House Husbands, Love Child, Offspring and Neighbours.”
In 2015, commercial free to air television networks broadcast more than 488 hours of first release Australian drama including children’s drama. Eight of the top 10 most watched dramas in 2015/16 were on Free TV and every one of the top 50 programs on Free TV in 2015/16 was Australian made.
“Despite the difficult market conditions that the industry faces, our commitment to producing Australian content has remained steadfast - spend on Australian content accounts for a massive 78% of Free TV broadcasters’ total expenditure,” Mr Savill said.
“This commitment is reflected in the array of successful new and much-loved Australian dramas that commercial free to air broadcasters are delivering to audiences, including Molly, Secret Daughter, Doctor Doctor, Hyde and Seek, Brock and The Wrong Girl.”
The economic and advertising environment remains challenging for the industry and its desire to invest in local drama.
“There is no doubt that our industry and its ability to continue investing in Australian content is under threat,” Mr Savill said.
“Australian broadcasters pay the highest licence fees in the world – more than 115 times the fees paid in the US. This punitive regulatory framework is not sustainable and must be urgently addressed.
“No other platform offers our range of quality local programming, to more than 13 million Australians every day, for free. It underlines our social and cultural identity. The ability to maintain our investment is critical,” he said.
They wouldn’t if there was not the legislated quota.
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###FREE TV WELCOMES LICENCE FEE REDUCTION
AS AN IMPORTANT STEP TOWARDS IMPROVING OUR INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS
Free TV has welcomed the passing in Parliament this week of the 25 percent reduction in licence fees for commercial television licensees.
Free TV CEO Brett Savill said, “The Federal Government’s decision to reduce television broadcasting licence fees from up to 4.5% of gross revenue to up to 3.375% is a welcome step towards improving our international competitiveness. The industry looks forward to continuing to work with the Communications Minister on further cuts in 2016 that were foreshadowed in his budget statement.”
The Government earlier in the year indicated that it will consider further reductions in broadcasting licence fees later in 2016 as part of a broader package of reforms that will include consideration of the pricing of broadcasting spectrum.
“The pace of change is unrelenting and licence fees must be reduced to international best practice levels. The commercial free to air television industry is thriving in markets such as the UK, where the Government has proactively reduced licence fees by 97% between 1995 and 2011.
“We will continue to work with the Government and the Parliament to ensure the public interest in a strong and healthy free to air broadcasting sector,” Savill said.
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###New TVC for Freeview
Freeview has launched a new episode in its popular ongoing TV campaign for FreeviewPlus starring The Freemans family. Dougie the dog returns to centre stage in the sequel to last year’s favourite instalment with Dog Day Afternoon II.
The new 30-sec TVC shows the race to the couch (and more importantly, the FreeviewPlus remote) between dad and dog. As with previous spots, this is a light-hearted look at the simplicity of using FreeviewPlus and the great choice of programming.
“We continue to have great feedback from consumers on The Freeman series, with Dougie the dog emerging as a favourite character, so we’re very happy to give him top billing in this TVC.
“The campaign has made a significant contribution helping FreeviewPlus achieve 20% market penetration,” said Freeview CEO Elizabeth Ross.
The Keeping up with the Freemans campaign first launched in November 2015 and this is the eighth spot in the series.
FREE TV REJECTS UNWARRANTED BAN ON THE PROMOTION OF BETTING SERVICES DURING LIVE SPORT
Commercial free to air television broadcasters have today rejected an unwarranted ban on the promotion of betting services during live sporting events on TV, proposed by the Federal opposition.
“Commercial broadcasters already have the most comprehensive, targeted set of restrictions on the promotion of betting services of any media platform in Australia,” Free TV CEO, Mr Brett Savill said today.
These measures include a ban on the promotion of live odds during play, as well a ban on the promotion of odds by commentators and their guests for 30 minutes before and after play.
These restrictions are in addition to the family viewing time safeguards that prohibit:
• all advertisements relating to betting and gambling during any programs classified G between 6am and 8.30am, and 4pm and 7pm
• all advertisements relating to betting and gambling during any program that is broadcast between 5.00 am and 8.30 pm and that is principally directed to children, regardless of the classification.
These strong protections were endorsed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority which registered the current Code in November 2015 following extensive consultation to ensure it provided appropriate community safeguards.
Complaints about betting are low, and broadcasters have demonstrated very high levels of compliance to the Code over a sustained period.
The recently published Australian Gambling Statistics indicate that total sports betting turnover represents less than 4% of total gambling turnover.
Introducing new restrictions which single-out free to air television - which continues to be the most heavily regulated media platform in Australia – is entirely unnecessary.
In fact, doing so would risk regulatory by-pass and put commercial free to air broadcasters at a competitive disadvantage compared to other media platforms, while failing to achieve the policy intent.
FREE TV WELCOMES MOVES TO FORCE MULTINATIONALS TO PAY THEIR FAIR SHARE
Commercial free to air television broadcasters have today welcomed the Government’s introduction of legislation to force multinational tax avoiders to pay their fair share.
“We strongly support measures that require foreign multinationals to be on a level tax playing field with their Australian based competitors,” Free TV CEO, Mr Brett Savill said today.
Without these measures, foreign multinationals will continue to avoid paying tax placing them at an advantage to their Australian competitors.
“In addition to paying corporate taxes, Australian free to air broadcasters already face the highest licence fees in the world—115 times higher than in the United States,” Mr Savill said.
Despite competing against services that are unregulated, pay little or no Australian taxes, and do not invest in local content production, Australia’s commercial free-to-air broadcasters are responsible for $6 out of every $10 spent on domestic content.
Over 13 million Australians watch commercial free-to-air services every day. Australians continue to rely on commercial free to air television to watch their news, sport and current affairs.
Fixing multinational tax avoidance is an important initial step towards fairer competition.
“We will continue working with the Government on reducing the outdated licence fees as the next critical step in ensuring Australians can continue to enjoy their favourite Australian drama and live sport free on TV,” Mr Savill said.
OUTDATED AND OUT-OF-STEP: TIME TO SCRAP THE TV BLACKOUT
Tonight’s commencement of the blackout period for television political advertising in WA is yet another reminder of how out-dated this restriction is.
“In an age where political parties are using multiple platforms to reach out to voters, it makes no sense to continue to apply a restriction to just one form of media,” Free TV spokesperson Ms Pam Longstaff said today.
This restriction comes from legislation passed 25 years ago—well before the advent of social media, the proliferation of online news sites, Pay TV and high-speed internet access.
“From midnight, the online news and Facebook feeds of Western Australians will be flooded with political ads—as marketing budgets are switched from broadcast to social media,” Ms Longstaff warned.
Free TV is again calling for this outdated restriction—that applies only to commercial broadcasters—to be removed.
“There is no reason for this restriction to continue to exist in 2017. It only serves to put commercial broadcasters at a disadvantage to all other media and is entirely at odds with modern marketing techniques,” Ms Longstaff said.
It’s time for the blackout period to be abolished and for political advertising regulation to catch-up to the rest of Australia.
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Aussie viewers love TV on their terms
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1.2 billion minutes of TV streamed last month
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Free Video on Demand eclipses Subscription Video on Demand
Australians’ love affair with TV continues, streaming an unprecedented 1.2 billion minutes of catch-up and live streaming TV in the past month, according to the latest OzTAM VPM 28 Day Rolling Report.
In addition, 5.14 million Australians – the highest-ever number – are streaming Free Video on Demand (FVOD) content, eclipsing 3.53 million for Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD)*.
Strong content across tenplay, 9Now, PLUS7, ABC iview and SBS on Demand has driven the increase, particularly Seven Network’s My Kitchen Rules, Nine Network’s Married at First Sight, Network Ten’s Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, SBS’s Vikings, and ABC iview’s Newton’s Law.
The results also reflect the success of free-to-air TV innovations like the Freeview FV mobile app and FreeviewPlus, allowing Australians to watch catch-up TV anywhere, anytime.
Freeview CEO Elizabeth Ross said people are increasingly focused on convenience and flexibility and how they watch TV is no exception.
“We’ve seen a big appetite for our streaming products that give viewers access to the best of TV, for free, on whatever device they choose.
“This time 10 years ago, Australian viewers only had access to five free-to-air channels, whereas today we have more than 25. TV is everywhere and any time, and with streaming services supplementing traditional TV viewing, it looks certain that we have entered a golden era of TV.
“It’s great to see such significant growth in catch-up TV consumption, which by and large has been in addition to traditional TV consumption. Australians are still watching, on average, 2 hours and 39 minutes of broadcast television on their TV each day1,” said Ross.
Freeview is the free digital television service in Australia which delivers clever, easy-to-use digital products so Australians can watch their favourite TV programs, anywhere, anytime.
Launched in November last year, Freeview FV delivers live streaming from 20 free-to-air TV channels and catch-up content from all networks with just one click. FreeviewPlus is a world-leading hybrid TV service which gives Australians access to all available catch-up TV programs in one place, on their TV.
*Nielsen DRM February 2017, Unique Audience Figure.
1Australian Multi-Screen Report Quarter 4 2016
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