Disney+ will increase its monthly subscription, effective on 8 December, 7 pm AEDT.
Australian subscribers will now pay $13.99 a month, up $2 from $11.99, which was introduced in early 2021 – a far cry from its original monthly price of $8.99 when the streaming service was first launched in Australia in 2019.
For subscribers who pay on an annual basis, this means an increase from $119.99 to $139.99 a year.
While consumers may be put off by the sizeable increase, Disney+ revealed this year that it will roll out an affordable ad-supported tier in late 2022 and expand internationally in early 2023.
First in line for the ad-supported tier rollout is the US, launching on 8 December. The new tier will cost American consumers US$7.99 a month.
No details have been revealed on when specifically the streaming giant will launch its ad-supported tier in Australia or how much it will cost.
See also: Disney+ to introduce ad-supported model on top of existing offering
The ad-supported offering is designed to be a building block in the company’s path to achieving its long-term target of 230 million–260 million subscribers by FY24.
Kareem Daniel, chairman, Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution, said: “Expanding access to Disney+ to a broader audience at a lower price point is a win for everyone—consumers, advertisers, and our storytellers.”
“More consumers will be able to access our amazing content. Advertisers will be able to reach a wider audience, and our storytellers will be able to share their incredible work with more fans and families.”
Rita Ferro, president, advertising, Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution, added: “Since its launch, advertisers have been clamoring for the opportunity to be part of Disney+ and not just because there’s a growing demand for more streaming inventory.”
“Disney+ with advertising will offer marketers the most premium environment in streaming with our most beloved brands: Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, Marvel, and National Geographic.”