Greens party launch inquiry into the value of Australian creative content

“Australians deserve to hear and see quality home grown content.”

This is the crux of a new inquiry launched today by the Greens party, which aims to “shine a light the contribution Australian-made television, film and music makes to our social and cultural fabric”, in light of proposed new changes to local content quotas, and the relaxed manner in which many radio stations currently regard such laws.

The ‘Economic and Cultural Value of Australian Content on Broadcast, Radio and Streaming Services’ study will highlight the value of local content requirements in the arts, with a multi-faceted report to be delivered by May, 2018.

“We’ve got so many great stories to tell across the country, and talented people working in our television, film and music industries. It’s time to acknowledge the positive impact investing in these industries has on our nation, and find out how we can improve it,” Greens communication and arts spokesperson Senator Sarah Hanson-Young said.

“We know that too many commercial radio stations across the country are already not meeting their requirement to play 25 per cent Australian music. We have a flourishing industry with outstanding artists producing world-class music, and it needs to be heard.

“This inquiry will focus on the value that Australian television and music contributes to our society, through economic benefits, export potential and community building.”

This article originally appeared on The Industry Observer, which is now part of The Music Network.