The Australian Subscription Television and Radio Association (ASTRA) has reported that subscription television contributed $2.9 billion to the national economy in FY2024, making up one-third of the Australian broadcasting industry’s total contribution.
The ASTRA FY24 Economic Contribution Report, prepared by Deloitte Access Economics, found the sector supported 17,000 full-time equivalent jobs, with 2,174 roles directly in the industry and a further 15,048 indirectly.
Viewing habits have shifted significantly in recent years. The report found 91 per cent of Australians watch online video content weekly, while paid subscription streaming service use has climbed from 29 per cent in 2017 to 69 per cent in 2024. Australians aged 35+ are driving the increase, with the average number of subscription services per household rising from 3.6 in 2023 to 4.3 in 2024.
Content output also rose, with 1.1 million hours of subscription television distributed in FY24, up 31 per cent from 2022. ASTRA members contributing to the report included BBC Worldwide Australia and New Zealand, Foxtel Group, Sky News Australia, ESPN Australia and Warner Bros. Discovery.
ASTRA chairman Patrick Delany said subscription television remained a “quiet achiever” in the broadcasting landscape. “It contributes one-third of the economic value added of the industry and is a major driver of investment, innovation and choice for Australian audiences,” he said. “Australians are now choosing subscription television first, based on its premium content, world-class coverage, and viewing experiences tailored to today’s audience viewing habits.”
Recent local productions and broadcast agreements include The Great Australian Bake Off S9, The Brenden Abbott Project, The Twelve S3: Cape Rock Killer, Selling Houses Australia S18, The Real Cost of Net Zero, Cheng Lei: My Story and Australia: A History.
Delany called on government to modernise policies such as the anti-siphoning scheme to reflect current technology and viewing habits. “Australians want real choice and access to the best content. It’s time for policymakers to ensure a level playing field so all broadcasters – including subscription TV and streaming services – can compete fairly while supporting the growth of our creative industries.”
A full copy of the report is available via the ASTRA website.