Australia’s popular TV shows, from “Lego Masters” to “Home and Away,” will soon be available to Indo-Pacific audiences as part of a federal government initiative to strengthen regional ties.
The Indo-Pacific Broadcasting Strategy will fund local media and enhance Australian outlets’ coverage of regional affairs. The government has pledged $40.5 million over five years to the ABC for creating new content and improving digital engagement in the Pacific, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. A further $28.4 million will go to PacificAus TV to support regional media and increase access to Australian TV programs.
“Media plays a crucial role in elevating the voices and perspectives of our region and strengthening democracy,” said Foreign Minister Penny Wong. “The government is committed to supporting viable, resilient, and independent media in the region.”
Australian Associated Press (AAP) will receive resources to appoint a Pacific editor, providing training and access to news content. “AAP has a long and respected history of working in the Pacific,” said CEO Lisa Davies. “We are pleased to partner with more media outlets in the region.”
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve regional stability in the face of geopolitical uncertainty.
