Media landscape shifts: broadcasters face streaming challenges

In Short:
– Free-to-air broadcasters face challenges from streaming services, impacting audience size and financial stability.
– Producers are struggling for work while networks lean on sports over drama, risking viewer satisfaction.

The media landscape is undergoing significant changes, particularly for free-to-air broadcasters facing competition from streaming services.

Industry experts describe the situation as a “major reset.”

Streaming platforms have disrupted traditional business models, though broadcast television remains relevant despite financial pressures and reduced audiences.

Government regulation has stepped in, notably through the news media bargaining code aimed at addressing the content usage of major tech companies.

Insights from the “Screen Forever” conference reveal an industry in turmoil.

Many producers are seeking networking opportunities rather than new projects, highlighting a lack of viable options.

Broadcasters increasingly use sports as a central draw for live audiences and advertisers, often sacrificing investments in drama production.

Shifts in scheduling have moved programs from weekends to work nights to enhance audience reach.

Concerns arise that networks have abandoned drama too soon, misjudging viewer preferences by relying heavily on reality television, which is facing viewer fatigue.

Looking ahead, there is potential for tech giants to engage with Australian sports rights, either through creating new content or acquiring peripheral rights not conflicting with current free-to-air agreements.

The industry needs to evolve to avoid being dominated by public broadcasters and foreign streamers, according to James Manning.