Reports: Federal Government having second thoughts on TV/radio licence fee reductions

April 4, 2016 8:41

The Federal government is having second thoughts on its mooted reduction in the licence fees charged to TV networks and radio stations.

Mitch Fifield In the face of the billion-dollar Federal budget deficit both The Australian and The Australian Financial Review are reporting that a proposed cut from 4.5% to 1% of revenue may be off the cards.

A cut in commercial licence fees, which currently pays some $173m in fees, has long been advocated by the broadcasters who argue they are at a disadvantage compared with the likes of Netflix and YouTube.

Speaking at the Senate Inquiry on media reform last week, Tim Worner CEO of Seven West Media, told Senators that cuts to the licence fees should be a top priority.

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Nic Christensen

Nic Christensen worked for Mumbrella from 2013 to 2016, in roles including deputy editor and media & technology editor. He is former media writer for The Australian and has also worked as a reporter for The Daily Telegraph and senior producer for Radio 2GB.

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