Review of television production funding

On 18 June 2010, Screen Australia announced it will review its funding of television production to ensure that the organisation is supporting the television production industry and Australian programming in an optimum way.

“It is vital that Screen Australia has a role in ensuring the continued investment in a diverse range of television programming including quality drama, innovative children’s television and documentaries that record matters of national significance. This review will allow us to develop a new blueprint for Screen Australia’s support of the television production industry,” said Ruth Harley, Screen Australia Chief Executive. 

“The television environment is changing dramatically and Screen Australia has not looked at how we fund television drama since the creation of the new organisation.  The introduction of the 20 per cent Producer Offset for television allows us to explore how we can play a more active role in the creation of innovative television.”

Screen Australia will consult with all interested parties during July and August. 

Written submissions should be addressed to tvreview@screenaustralia.gov.au by close of business on Friday 30 July 2010.

It is anticipated that the outcomes of the review will be released in November 2010, with new program guidelines taking effect from 1 July 2011.

Terms of reference

The terms of reference for the Review are to:

1. Confirm the objectives and role of Screen Australia with regard to television funding, taking into account levels of investment and the role the agency has in developing and producing innovative and nationally significant television programming;
   
   
2. Review Screen Australia’s funding eligibility requirements, including minimum licence fees, hold back provisions and market place attachments, and determine whether these levels and requirements remain appropriate; and
   
   
3. Evaluate the funding allocation for NDP projects including the provision of funding of programming for particular television broadcasters or channels.

 

Download background paper.

Read the media release.

Screen Australia’s current production funding for TV drama and documentaries is set out at www.screenaustralia.gov.au/production