“Iconic Aussie Actor Bryan Brown Addresses the Nation at the National Press Club”

Australian actor Bryan Brown calls for 20% reinvestment obligation on streaming services

Australian actor Bryan Brown has made a passionate plea for Australia to impose a 20% reinvestment obligation on streaming services that produce content in the country. Brown made this call during his address at the National Press Club in Canberra. He emphasized the importance of supporting Australian stories and ensuring that they do not get lost in the era of streaming.

The Need for Reinvestment Obligation

Brown argues that streaming companies, while making billions of dollars from Australian consumers, should reinvest a percentage of their revenue back into producing Australian stories. He criticizes the tendency for stories filmed in Australia to have American accents, calling it a cultural death. Brown points to Canada and France as examples, where legislation requires a portion of the revenue earned in those countries to be invested in local production. He believes that a 20% reinvestment obligation, along with strong intellectual property arrangements, would help secure the future of Australia’s film and television industry.

Protecting Australian Culture

Brown urges Australians to fight for their culture and to ensure that the streaming companies, driven by profit, do not overshadow the local industry. He acknowledges the popularity of streaming services and the desire of Australian audiences to have access to their shows. However, he believes that Australia should step up and produce local content, rather than rely solely on American productions.

The Power of Film and Television

During his speech, Brown reflects on his career spanning over 40 years and highlights the power of film and television in shaping people’s perceptions and introducing them to the spirit of a nation. He shares his experience of visiting the White House and how films like “Crocodile Dundee” have created a fascination with Australia in the international community. Brown emphasizes the role of film and television in presenting Australia’s identity to the world.

Editorial: The Importance of Supporting Australian Stories

Brown’s call for a 20% reinvestment obligation on streaming services is a timely reminder of the need to protect and support the Australian film and television industry. In an era dominated by global streaming giants, it is essential not to lose sight of the value and significance of telling Australian stories.

Australia has a rich cultural heritage and a unique identity that deserves to be celebrated and represented on screen. By reinvesting a portion of their revenue into local production, streaming services can contribute to the growth and sustainability of the Australian industry, allowing it to thrive and continue producing quality content.

Moreover, supporting Australian stories is not just about preserving cultural identity. It is also about fostering creativity, providing opportunities for local talent, and contributing to the economy. Films and television shows have the power to inspire, entertain, and educate audiences, and Australian stories have the potential to resonate deeply with both local and international viewers.

While streaming services have undoubtedly transformed the way we consume media, it is crucial to strike a balance between global content and local storytelling. Australians should have access to a diverse range of content that reflects their own experiences and perspectives. This can only be achieved through a commitment to supporting and investing in homegrown productions.

Advice: Continuing the Support for Australian Film and Television

As consumers, we play a crucial role in the success of the Australian film and television industry. Here are some ways we can contribute:

1. Support Australian Productions:

Make a conscious effort to watch and engage with Australian films and television shows. Attend screenings at local cinemas, stream Australian content, and purchase DVDs or digital copies of Australian films.

2. Engage with Local Arts and Culture:

Attend film festivals, theater performances, and exhibitions that showcase Australian talent. Support local artists, writers, and musicians by purchasing their works or attending their events.

3. Advocate for Policy Changes:

Stay informed about the policy landscape surrounding the film and television industry. Support initiatives that aim to protect and promote Australian stories, such as calls for reinvestment obligations on streaming services.

4. Encourage Government Support:

Write to your local representatives and express your support for initiatives that invest in the Australian industry. Push for increased funding and favorable policies that promote local content creation and distribution.

By actively engaging with Australian film and television, we can contribute to a thriving industry that showcases our culture, talent, and stories to the world.

Conclusion:

Bryan Brown’s call for a 20% reinvestment obligation on streaming services is a reminder of the importance of supporting Australian stories in the era of streaming. It is crucial to strike a balance between global content and local storytelling, and to ensure that Australian culture and identity are not overshadowed.

By actively engaging with Australian film and television and advocating for policy changes and government support, we can contribute to the growth and sustainability of the industry. Together, we can continue to celebrate and promote Australian stories that resonate with audiences, both locally and internationally.