Lexi Webster
Entertainment in Australia has evolved significantly over the years, influenced by cultural shifts, technological advancements, and changing consumer preferences. The end of World War II marked a turning point, with the arrival of over 100,000 U.S. troops leaving a lasting impact on Australian society and entertainment, moving away from the conservative British influence. The introduction of television in 1956 reshaped the industry, leading to a decline in cinema attendance, and the emergence of rock and roll sparked a youth-oriented cultural revolution. Today, streaming services, online videos, and smartphones have transformed how Australians access and engage with entertainment, while social media has become a dominant force, reshaping celebrity interactions and influencing social trends.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Introduction of television | September 1956 |
| Television ownership | Increased as the price of television decreased |
| Opposition to television | Some Australians opposed television as the majority of programs were American |
| Cinema attendance | Declined due to the introduction of television |
| Influence of British culture | Prevalent before World War II |
| Influence of American culture | Increased after World War II, impacting entertainment, music, and sports |
| Economic growth | Australia experienced economic growth after World War II, allowing Australians to embrace new products and technologies |
| Rock music | Johnny O'Keefe became the first Australian rock singer to reach the national charts with "Wild One" in 1958 |
| Changing consumer preferences | 88% of Australians own smartphones; the number of Australians using portable devices for entertainment tripled between 2016 and 2017 |
| Online content | On the rise, contributing to the growth of the entertainment industry |
| Online advertising | Expected to grow by 10% by 2021, accounting for 55% of the total Australian advertising market |
| Media reforms | In 2017, the Federal Government passed media reforms, including the abolition of broadcast license fees and the deletion of media ownership rules |
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What You'll Learn
The influence of American culture
American films and music played a pivotal role in shaping Australian entertainment preferences. During the 1940s and 1950s, American companies produced the majority of films shown on Australian screens, offering escapism and new perspectives to audiences. The introduction of television in 1956 further solidified the impact of American media, as it quickly became a popular medium for consuming entertainment. American productions dominated the television landscape, influencing Australian youth and contributing to the emergence of a new, more rebellious youth culture.
The rise of rock and roll in the 1950s, exemplified by the success of "Rock Around the Clock" by Bill Haley and His Comets, had a profound impact on Australian music and youth culture. This new genre sparked the creation of new dance styles and fashion trends, reflecting a shift towards a more liberated and expressive lifestyle. Australian artists like Johnny O'Keefe also emerged during this period, blending American influences with a unique Australian identity.
Beyond film and music, American television shows have had a significant impact on Australian culture. American productions are often sold to Australian networks at low prices, undercutting local productions and resulting in fewer Australian shows on television. This influx of American content has influenced Australian language and mindset, with the adoption of American phrases and a shift towards the urban mindset often portrayed in American media.
Additionally, the economic might of the United States has played a role in the Americanisation of Australian culture. The country's large population and successful economy have resulted in a substantial entertainment industry that produces movies, television shows, and other forms of entertainment at a lower cost than their Australian counterparts. This has led to an abundance of American offerings in the entertainment sector, influencing Australian consumers and shaping their preferences.
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The introduction of television
In the initial years, the majority of television content was sourced from the United States, raising concerns about the potential impact on the development of a unique Australian identity. However, as televisions became more affordable, ownership rapidly increased, and by the mid-1960s, there was a growing demand for more Australian content. This led to an increase in the broadcasting of Australian programs, particularly Australian dramatic series.
The Australian government played a role in shaping the television landscape by licensing a third station in major cities beginning in 1964, leading to the creation of Australia's third commercial network, originally known as the Independent Television System (ITS). This network would later evolve into what is now known as Network 10. Channel 0 in Melbourne, part of this new network, became known for its focus on teenage viewers and pop music programming, with popular shows like "The Go!! Show" and "Kommotion."
Over time, the Australian television market became dominated by free-to-air television, with powerful commercial networks emerging. The Packer family's Consolidated Press group, the Herald and Weekly Times group, and the Fairfax newspaper group all exerted significant influence over major channels. This concentration of cross-media ownership raised concerns about potential political allegiances and the ability of regulatory bodies to control broadcaster conduct effectively.
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The rise of online content
The Australian entertainment sector is witnessing a transformation in composition, with online entertainment gaining prominence. This has prompted legislators to update legal frameworks, such as the abolition of broadcast license fees and the relaxation of media ownership rules. The rise of online content has also impacted the types of careers in demand, with a growing need for digital media experts.
The availability of high-speed internet and the widespread adoption of smartphones have played a crucial role in the rise of online content in Australia. As of 2017, 88% of Australians owned smartphones, and the number of individuals using portable devices to access entertainment tripled between 2016 and 2017. Smartphones have become portable all-in-one entertainment systems, with Australians consuming media on the go and even exceeding their data limits. The convenience and accessibility offered by smartphones, coupled with the popularity of streaming services and online videos, have made them indispensable for entertainment in Australia.
The impact of the internet and changing consumer preferences have also influenced traditional media platforms. While television once dominated as the most popular form of entertainment in Australia, the rise of online content has led to a decline in television viewership. Australians now have the option to access a diverse range of online content, including streaming services, mobile apps, and online videos, providing them with greater control over their entertainment choices. This shift in consumer behavior has had a significant impact on the entertainment industry, with companies investing in online content creation and digital distribution channels to meet the changing demands of their audiences.
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The shift from traditional to online advertising
Entertainment in Australia has undergone significant changes over the years, from the heyday of cinema in the 1920s and 1930s to the current landscape dominated by online content. The Australian entertainment industry is larger than ever, with a growth rate of 2.9% between 2008 and 2017, generating nearly $36 billion. This growth, however, masks the volatility within the industry, with some traditional forms of entertainment declining while online entertainment surges in popularity.
The rise of online entertainment has disrupted the advertising industry, causing a shift from traditional to online advertising channels. Traditional advertising channels like newspaper and free-to-air television are expected to shrink, while internet advertising is projected to grow significantly. By 2021, online advertising was predicted to account for 55% of the total Australian advertising market. This shift has impacted specific job roles, with a decline in traditional careers like copywriters and certain media buyers, and an increasing demand for digital media experts.
The growth of online video and streaming services has been a key driver of this change. Australians' consumption patterns have evolved, with 88% owning smartphones and a tripling of portable device usage for entertainment between 2016 and 2017. This shift has made smartphones indispensable entertainment devices, with the rise of mobile apps contributing to a $60 billion global app revenue in 2017.
The changing landscape has prompted legislators to update legal frameworks governing the industry. In 2017, the Australian Federal Government passed significant media reforms, abolishing broadcast license fees and removing media ownership rules. These reforms reflect a recognition that existing media laws may no longer be adequate in the era of online entertainment.
While Australia's entertainment industry continues to evolve, the shift from traditional to online advertising is undeniable. The growth of online video and changing consumer preferences have transformed how the industry connects with its customers. As social platforms become a dominant force, the definition of "celebrity" is also evolving, with younger generations gravitating towards independent content creators who feel more authentic.
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The impact of smartphones and mobile apps
Smartphones, the internet, and mobile apps have revolutionized the entertainment industry in Australia. Entertainment is no longer restricted to a schedule or predefined time slots. If you miss an episode of your favourite show on TV, you can watch it later on your smartphone from anywhere, be it your workspace or while commuting.
The entertainment industry has been digitized, and the comfort of accessing entertainment content from anywhere through a smartphone and internet access has been made possible. This has led to the creation of a portable all-in-one entertainment system. In Australia, 56% of smartphone owners aged 25-34 have exceeded their data limit due to consuming media on the go.
Entertainment app development has created a new platform for music, movies, news, and live streaming, among other forms of entertainment. This has allowed artists to showcase their work and build a fan base more easily. Platforms like YouTube have enabled anyone to create a channel and display their video content and talent by creating various video formats. Many rising stars have gained popularity from their bedrooms via YouTube.
Mobile applications have simplified people's lives, and almost every piece of information is now available online. Entertainment app development has also helped reduce and eliminate the issue of pirated content by providing the same content for a reasonable price. Entertainment apps provide an option to download unlimited music and videos at a minimal cost, improving the quality and accessibility of content.
The popularity of smartphones and mobile apps has opened the door for a new kind of engagement where physical presence isn't necessary, but the impact is global. Anyone with unique, engaging, and authentic content can share it using these applications and reach a broad audience. This has transformed the ways in which the entertainment industry connects with customers.
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Frequently asked questions
The growth in the Australian entertainment industry is largely driven by online video and internet advertising. While traditional advertising channels are in decline, the demand for digital media experts is increasing.
In 2017, the Federal Government passed significant media reforms, including the abolition of broadcast license fees and the removal of media ownership rules. These changes reflect the shift towards online entertainment and the need to support traditional media such as community radio and regional television.
The introduction of television in Australia in 1956 led to a rapid decline in cinema attendance. Television quickly became popular and influential, with programs heavily influenced by American productions.
The widespread adoption of smartphones and portable devices has transformed how Australians access entertainment. Streaming services, online videos, and mobile apps have become prevalent, contributing to the evolution of a new entertainment industry.
Australian popular culture has evolved significantly, particularly after World War II, with a shift from conservative British influence to the influence of American culture and values. This impact was enhanced by the presence of U.S. troops in Australia during the war and the economic growth fostered by the American alliance.
