The future of Australia's film and TV industry is a topic that deserves our attention and action, on par with addressing housing crises and environmental concerns. This was the powerful message echoed at the 2026 Screen Forever conference, a gathering of industry leaders on the Gold Coast.
The conference, a 40-year tradition, kicked off with a celebration of the Communications Legislation Amendment Bill, a landmark law that will reshape the streaming landscape in Australia. From now on, major streaming platforms with over 1 million subscribers will be required to reinvest a minimum of 10% of their program expenditure in local productions. This move, while long overdue, presents an opportunity to reshape the industry and support Australian voices and stories.
The Impact on the Industry
The effects of this legislation are expected to take time, but the industry is already seeing signs of recovery post-COVID. Australian cinemas are experiencing a resurgence, with box office takings almost reaching pre-pandemic levels. Hoyts CEO Damian Keogh reported a 14% increase in box office revenue compared to the previous year, attributing this to a shift in audience behavior. Audiences are now seeking out specific movies, creating event-like experiences, rather than just going to the movies.
However, this trend poses a challenge for independent and Australian productions, which struggle to gain traction amidst the flood of big-budget Hollywood blockbusters and IP-driven content. Madman CEO Paul Wiegard highlighted that local films make up a mere 2% of the Australian box office, a stark contrast to the volume of content available today.
Navigating the Streaming Landscape
The streaming quota bill also includes a $50 million funding boost for the ABC, which will be allocated to drama and children's programming over the next three years. ABC's head of Screen, Jennifer Collins, emphasized the growth in audience demand for Australian content. This presents an opportunity for platforms like Binge to expand their audience base, particularly among men, by telling authentic stories without the need for shock value.
Haven't You Done Well, the production house behind the successful launch of streaming service Grouse House.tv, offers a unique perspective. General manager Georgia Mappin believes in accessing audiences where they consume content, bypassing traditional gatekeepers. With 1,000 subscribers paying for content they could get for free, Mappin's approach challenges the traditional model and highlights the importance of cultivating a dedicated audience.
The Role of Intellectual Property
When discussing the future of content at the ABC, managing director Hugh Marks emphasized the importance of intellectual property (IP). He believes that creating valuable IP will drive reinvestment into the Australian market. This sentiment was echoed by Screen Australia's Director of First Nations Strategy, Rachel Perkins, who highlighted the progress made in Indigenous film over the past two decades. Indigenous productions, such as Goolagong on the ABC and Wolfram, have solidified their place in the industry as core to Australian identity and storytelling.
For Perkins, the future lies in sustaining this growth by supporting emerging creators and ensuring sustainable careers for Indigenous content creators. This involves collective action, government policy, and leveraging available markets.
The Journey of Emerging Talent
Caden Pearson, a filmmaker and director of Resonant Films, offers a glimpse into the journey of emerging talent in the industry. Having been in the industry for 12 years, Pearson's recognition as one of Screen Producers Australia's One To Watch 2025 is a testament to the perseverance required. Pearson's experience highlights the importance of self-belief and the understanding that success often comes after a long, dedicated journey.
Conclusion
The future of Australia's film and TV industry is bright, but it requires a collective effort to support and celebrate Australian voices and stories. The legislation passed in 2025 is a step in the right direction, but it's up to the industry to seize the opportunity and create a sustainable, vibrant ecosystem for local productions. As we navigate the evolving landscape, the key lies in embracing intellectual property, supporting emerging talent, and telling authentic stories that resonate with audiences.
