Summarised by Centrist
Media Minister Paul Goldsmith announced the repeal of ad restrictions for media broadcasters on Sundays and public holidays in Parliament, emphasising its potential to generate an additional $6m in annual revenue for traditional broadcasters.
“Traditional media outlets are operating in an extremely difficult environment, and as the Government, we must ensure regulatory settings are enabling the best chance of success,” Goldsmith said.
The legislation aims to level the playing field between traditional media and digital platforms like Netflix and YouTube, which are not subject to similar restrictions.
At the same time, Goldsmith’s office confirmed that the Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill, which would have compelled companies like Google and Meta to pay for hosting New Zealand journalism, has been put on hold.
The delay follows Australia’s plans to impose a new tax on tech giants like Facebook, Google, and TikTok, requiring them to fund journalism even if they don’t host news.
The tax, applied to Australian revenue over A$250 million, can be offset if platforms sign funding agreements with news organisations, mirroring earlier deals struck under the News Media Bargaining Code. Platforms like Meta have criticised the plan, arguing it forces one industry to subsidise another. The tax is expected to act as a “backstop” rather than generate revenue, with the government leaving key details flexible to facilitate negotiations.
“We will evaluate how Australia’s legislation unfolds over the next few months, and if it lands well, consider whether or not we seek to shift our approach in that direction,” Goldsmith stated.
Read more over at The Beehive and RNZ
Image: Dafne Cholet
