Successful businesses rely on a number of strategies to refresh ideas, attract talented staff and plan for the future. The subscription TV (STV) industry stands out as a leader in the Australian media and communications landscape because of its approach to addressing current issues, future trends and providing opportunities for new talent. Recent developments have provided examples of STV’s commitment to growing the industry and providing value for consumers.
The conviction of a Sydney resident (press release) for the theft and illegal on-sale of STV using unauthorized decoders is an example of how the industry is defending its intellectual property rights. These activities hurt not only TV distributors but also content producers and many consumers who are unaware it is a criminal offence to have unauthorised equipment installed in their homes. In most instances innocent customers are ultimately left out of pocket when these devices are rendered inoperable.
The implications of piracy are facilitated by the digitisation of content which is being combatted by the introduction of fast-tracking of international programs by broadcasters. Foxtel’s Express from the US will enhance customer engagement and combat piracy. Viewer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and results can be seen in channel ratings, including time-shift viewing, as viewers utilise Foxtel IQ technology to record programs that are aired within only minutes of their US premiere.
New and exclusive programming will always be a drawcard for consumers and the 64th Annual Prime Time Emmy Awards acknowledged the quality and popularity of programs that are 'only on' STV. Winners included Breaking Bad, Game Change and Veep appearing on Showcase as well as Louis C.K. on Comedy Channel. The Emmy’s also acknowledged ‘first on STV’ shows like Boardwalk Empire on Showcase and The Daily Show with Jon Stewart on Comedy Channel (full list of winners).
STV also invests in original production and in October new and returning series include Project Runway S4 on Arena, Conspiracy 365 on Family Movie Channel, Grand Designs Australia on The LifeStyle Channel, Talent Development on Aurora Community Channel, The Croc Catchers NT on National Geographic Channel, Territory Cops on Crime & Investigation Network, and ROVE LA on FOX8 to name a few (read more).
As well as continuing to invest in new and innovative ways to enhance its product and service offering, STV continues to make a significant contribution to the development of the industry by supporting excellence and learning. ASTRA recently announced the launch of the third annual ASTRA Graduate Program in 2013. The program will provide three month contracts for 10 graduates of the Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS) Foundation Diploma to work in STV. Host organisations include Fox Sports Australia, Foxtel, BBC Worldwide Australia, TVSN & Expo Channel, Disney Channels, TV1 & SF, STUDIO & World Movies and Aurora Community Channel (read more).
From employment and training opportunities to providing and protecting exclusive content, STV is focused on driving the industry forward by investing in the present and in the future.