The Australian production landscape shifted significantly today following the news that Universal International Studios will close the doors at Matchbox Pictures. After 18 years of defining high-end Australian drama, the prolific production house ceases operations after an extensive evaluation by its parent company.
As reported by IF‘s Jackie Keast, NBCU confirmed the decision to shutter the company, citing evolving strategic priorities and a change in its operating model for the region.
While the studio maintains its commitment to the local market, it plans to engage with talent and producers on a case-by-case basis rather than maintaining a permanent production banner.
Strategic shifts and studio shudders
The closure also extends to Tony Ayres Productions (TAP), the standalone company that Tony Ayres launched in 2018 with Universal’s backing. Ayres, a titan of the local industry, reportedly shifts his focus back to writing following the restructure which was quietly announced today at the Netflix ‘What’s Next’ in 2026 Event.
Managing director Alastair McKinnon expressed immense pride in the team’s achievements and the quality of work produced since the company’s inception.
Founded in 2008 by industry heavyweights Ayres, Penny Chapman, Helen Bowden, Michael McMahon, and Helen Pankhurst, Matchbox Pictures became a global success story. In 2011, NBCUniversal International took a majority stake in the company: its first-ever investment in a production house outside the UK.
The global giant took full ownership in 2014.
A legacy of global hits
Across 18 years, the company produced over 55 projects for every Australian network and numerous international streaming platforms. From the cultural phenomenon of The Slap to the International Emmy-winning Safe Harbour, Matchbox proved that Australian stories command a global audience.
The news comes while the company remains at the top of its game.
Matchbox’s most recent project… Dog Park, currently airing on the ABC, starring Leon Ford and Celia Pacquola
The comedy Dog Park currently airs on the ABC, while the TAP-produced series The Survivors recently dominated Netflix.
As the most-watched local series of 2025, it racked up over 28 million views.
Beyond the hits, Matchbox served as a vital incubator for Australian executive talent like Chris Oliver-Taylor, Que Minh Luu, and Kylie Washington.
Main Image: Managing Director, Alastair McKinnon