On 30 April 2012, the Federal Government's report on its
Convergence Review was released. The report aims to develop
technologically neutral legislation and policy to meet trends and
rapid changes in technology in the communications and broadcasting
sectors such as social media, and television and radio services
delivered over the internet.
The Report recommends principle-based regulation that provides
high-level guidance to businesses and individuals on compliance,
but is flexible enough to change with technological
advancements.
In particular, three distinct areas of change are
recommended:
- Short term changes, including amendments to polices, programs
and legislation, such as a 'public interest' test that will
apply to changes in control of content service enterprises and
media operators that have significant influence in particular local
markets. The public interest test aims to maintain diversity at a
national level and is intended to complement rather
