The Australian Government signals cuts to TV and radio licence fees could come next year

The government is reviewing TV and radio broadcast licence fees which could be cut as part of next year’s budget.

New Communications Minister Mitch Fifield also said that the government is planning to pursue media reforms, even if there is not consensus from media owners. Licence fee arrangements for commercial radio and television broadcasters are being reviewed.

He added that he wanted agreement from all the major media owners on changes that would see a round of mergers in the industry.

Many media owners are lobbying for changes to laws preventing them reaching more than 75 per cent of the population, arguing they are now at a disadvantage to internet-based players.