The discussion about a statutory streaming levy in Austria is gaining momentum. A recent study by the European Centre for Social Finance (ECSF) with the title "Double relevance of the film industry" proves it: Austria's film industry is not only culturally influential, but also an important economic factor with high regional added value.

Cuts increase pressure on the industry

Following the recent cuts to the successful funding model ÖFI+which was developed by the Green economy and Chairman of the Association Alexander Dumreicher-Ivanceanu the concern about the future of the domestic film and music industry is growing.
The Green economy therefore demands a mandatory financing model for international streaming providersto strengthen the location in the long term.

Streaming levy as a contribution to location development

The idea: streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+ or Amazon Prime are to be a fixed percentage of their sales generated in Austria. invest in local film and music productions.
This would not only create a reliable funding framework for the local creative industry, but also send a strong signal in favour of cultural diversity.

"Numerous EU countries are already successfully using comparable models." emphasised Sabine Jungwirth, Federal Spokesperson for the Green Economy.
"Streaming levies are realistically feasible and make a tangible contribution to financing local creative industries. It's high time Austria took this step too."

Film industry as an economic factor

Association chairman Alexander Dumreicher-Ivanceanu emphasised the economic importance of the industry at the presentation of the study:

"The study clearly shows that Austria's film industry is far more than just a cultural sector. Every euro in film is a benefit for our cultural diversity, jobs and audience."

Orientation towards European models

The demand for a modern Tax and investment model is modelled on successful European examples, such as in France and Italy. These countries show that a mandatory contribution from international platforms to the financing of national productions is both practicable and effective.

Outlook: Legislation required to set the course

The study and the demands of the Green Economy highlight the need for action: without a binding investment commitment, Austria risks falling behind in the international competition of the creative industries. A streaming levy could create the necessary balance between the global platform economy and regional cultural production.