Switch to Mitch!

The new Minister for Communciations and the Arts, Mitch Fifield, addressed the CRA conference this morning via video, understandable given his appointment is so recent.

He spoke about his desire to consult with stakeholders, and forecast continuing work on the stripping out red tape. Notably, he did not refer to the PPCA/ CRA feud which still sees the majority fo regional stations remain with streaming turned off. 

The Minister, in part, said:

“Well, what a difference 12 months can make…Last year I was in Melbourne regaling you with my (almost) radio career – regrettably I’ve
never had the chance to use ‘Switch to Mitch’ – and this year I join you as the Minister for Communications and the Arts.

As you know, I am not a complete stranger to the Communicationsportfolio and its stakeholders, but I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge and engaging more closely on the challenges and opportunities for commercial radio broadcasters.

While the industry can continue to grow and succeed through the delivery of innovative services and compelling content, government also has a role to play. The Australian Government recognises that the broadcasting industry is subject to areas of regulation in need of updating, and that changes are needed to allow broadcasters to adapt and thrive now and into the future.

I can assure you that the Government is committed to positive reform of broadcasting law to reflect the rapid changes occurring in
Australia’s media industry.”