Convergence Review Interm Report: Recommendations Risk Further Uncertainly

Expectations for the Convergence Review are high – that it will produce a new regulatory framework that is fair, flexible and doesn't stifle innovation. The recommendations put forward in the Committee's December 2011 interim report are indeed revolutionary. However, they potentially perpetuate a number of issues already existing in the Broadcasting Services Act while complicating others.

The Australian media industry has high hopes for the Government's Convergence Review – that it will "crack the regulatory nut" by replacing the sector's legacy framework with a new structure that treats traditional and new media fairly, doesn't stifle innovation and promotes an even playing field.