Seven Network is considering approaches from telco Optus, digital TV platform Freeview, and movie subscription service Quickflix about joining forces for an online streaming service to rival U.S. streaming giant Netflix. The Australian reports that it was not previously known that Optus, Freeview and Quickflix were planning a foray into subscription video on-demand services. The service will compete with Netflix, which is considering an official launch in Australia next year. … [Read more...] about Seven plots rival service as Netflix heads to Australia
Australia
Linda Baker acquires Dubsat’s The SubStation
Sydney – Dubsat announced on May 14 that as part of its continued growth strategy, Linda Baker has fully acquired its closed captioning, audio description and subtitling service, The SubStation. Baker, along with Dubsat CEO Grant Schuetrumpf, launched The SubStation in 2008. The SubStation’s clients include Australia’s top advertising agencies, entertainment distributors and broadcast channels, along with a wide variety of government agencies and some of the … [Read more...] about Linda Baker acquires Dubsat’s The SubStation
SpeedCast acquires SatComms Australia
Australia and Hong Kong – SpeedCast Ltd (“SpeedCast”), a major international satellite services provider, announced the buyout of SatComms Australia, a leading satellite solutions provider in Australia on May 13. The closing of the transaction is subject to regulatory approval. The acquisition will further consolidate SpeedCast’s leadership position in the Asia-Pacific region and provide SpeedCast with an expanded presence in Australia. SpeedCast also announced the … [Read more...] about SpeedCast acquires SatComms Australia
ABC’s budget to be cut by US$120 million
The ABC’s budget will be cut by US$120 million over the next four years as a result of decisions made by the Federal Government. Operational funding cuts of close to US$40 million over four years will come on top of the termination of the US$220 million contract to deliver the international broadcasting service, Australia Network. The 2014-15 budget also foreshadows further significant funding cuts in the wake of the Lewis review into the operations of the ABC and SBS. “The funding … [Read more...] about ABC’s budget to be cut by US$120 million
“Celblok-H” re-commissioned in Holland
London – FremantleMedia has confirmed on May 7 that prison drama Celblok-H, the Dutch adaptation of the global Australian hit Wentworth, has been re-commissioned by SBS 6 in Holland for a second season on. SBS confirmed the second season earlier this week even before the final episode of the first season aired. Adapted from the hugely successful FremantleMedia Australia series, season one Celblok-H used the same scripts to tell the gritty story of survival, … [Read more...] about “Celblok-H” re-commissioned in Holland
Foxtel Play to debut on PlayStation 4
Foxtel announced on May 1 that Foxtel Play has made its next generation gaming console debut on PlayStation 4 (PS4). This news comes on the heels of April’s launch of Foxtel Play on PlayStation 3 (PS3), which has already been popularly embraced by new subscribers. This means PlayStation owners will be able to view Foxtel’s content across the Entertainment, Drama, Documentary and Kids Genre Picks as well as its Premium Picks including Sports and Premium Movies & Drama. PlayStation … [Read more...] about Foxtel Play to debut on PlayStation 4
