Convergence Review: Protection remains for free TV sport despite ‘competitive advantage’

The anti-siphoning legislation – designed to keep sporting events on free to air television – will remain untouched under the scope of the Convergence Review.

The review states: While sport on free television is highly valued by Australians, the anti-siphoning scheme creates commercial benefits for the free-to-air television broadcasters at the expense of other platforms. Having the first opportunity to acquire exclusive premium sports rights gives the free-to-air broadcasters a competitive advantage in the market.”

However, it adds: “Given that the anti-siphoning scheme was recently reviewed by the government and a bill to amend the scheme is presently before Parliament, the Review believes that it is not appropriate to recommend detailed changes at this time.”