Seven West Media : Statement on the Morrison Governmen...

Thursday, 12 December 2019

Statement on the Morrison Government's response to the ACCC Digital Platforms Inquiry Final Report

Seven West Media (ASX: SWM) today welcomed the Morrison Government's response to the ACCC's Digital Platforms Inquiry Final Report.

James Warburton, Seven West Media Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer said: "We welcome today's response from the Government to the ACCC's Digital Platforms Inquiry Final Report, supports the majority of the ACCC's recommendations."

"Seven is particularly pleased by the announced process to swiftly address out of date Australian content requirements that are currently holding back Australian media businesses. We encourage the Government to move quickly to provide certainty to industry and put in place a new framework for content that better reflects commercial realities and the changed viewing patterns of Australian audiences.

"The urgent need for regulatory equality between foreign Digital Platforms and Australian companies has been recognised by the Government. We see this as a real turning point, as for too long legislation has lagged well behind technological evolution, disadvantaging Australian companies and providing foreign Digital Platforms with a free ride."

"We are disappointed that the Government is not pursuing a mandatory take down scheme for copyright infringing material as recommended by the ACCC. But it is pleasing that the Government has committed to reviewing copyright enforcement mechanisms during 2020."

"We look forward to working with the Government as this process moves forward, to ensure a regulatory environment that is appropriate in the digital age, to better protects consumers and provide a more level playing field for Australian businesses."

End.

For more details:

Jack McLintock

Corporate and Government Affairs

T: 0450 608 022

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About Seven West Media

Seven West Media (ASX: SWM) is one of Australia's most prominent media companies, with a market leading presence in content production across broadcast television, publishing and digital.

The company comprises of some of Australia's most renowned media businesses, including the Seven Network and its affiliate channels 7TWO, 7mate, 7flix, 7food network and BVOD offering 7plus, as well as, The West Australian and The Sunday Times and production powerhouse Seven Studios. Home to iconic brands such as My Kitchen Rules, House Rules, Home and Away, Better Homes and Gardens, Australia's leading news and breakfast programs 7NEWS and Sunrise, Seven West Media is also the broadcast partner of the AFL, Cricket Australia and the Olympics.

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