Nearly 10 years ago, Australians invited Netflix into their homes for the first time. The global streaming platform commissioned its first local series, Mako Mermaids in 2014.

The official Australian launch took place in March 2015 when Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings and his then head of content, Ted Sarandos, flew in for a day of publicity and an evening launch party.

Back then the questions asked in every interview with the visiting execs was: Will Netflix be making many Australian series?

Mediaweek reported Sarandos answered that question at the launch event: “We won’t be able to not make content in Australia. It is one of the great creative places in the world for television, for movies and for documentaries.”

These days Sarandos is co-CEO with Greg Peters who was visiting in what is a big week at Netflix for a numbers of reasons.

In addition to the new offices, Netflix today globally launches the major Australian drama Territory. The new series has been made for the platform by Easy Tiger and Ronde.

Dressing up the new Netflix Australian HQ. Top image: Minister Tony Burke, Netflix co-CEO Greg Peter and Netflix ANZ director of content Que Minh Luu

Netflix PR director Nathan Burman shared that the launch event was hosted by Peters who welcomed a room full of Australian creatives, policymakers, media and industry peers to the new hub that will serve as the home to Netflix’s dedicated local team.

Greg Peters on the ‘Netflix effect’

“It’s been an amazing journey to be able to work with incredible storytellers, some of which are represented in this room,” said Peters as part of his opening remarks. “We’ve created [shows and films] like Boy Swallows Universe, Heartbreak High, True Spirit, Love is in the Air and The Stranger. All of these have graced our Top 10 lists not only here in Australia and New Zealand, but around the world.

“The impact of these films and shows goes beyond our screens. Following the release of Boy Swallows Universe, the novel was again #1 in the Bookscan charts — some five years after publication — and fans started an online movement to reopen the infamous Boggo Road Gaol to visitors. That ‘Netflix Effect’ that we call it, this thing that happens when a great story meets a big audience on our service — it’s so important to us.

“We want amazing Australian storytellers to know that they can tell their incredible stories right here in Australia. They don’t need to go to Hollywood, they don’t need to go somewhere else, but they can tell hugely ambitious stories, authentic stories at significant scale right here, and we will help them find an amazing audience in Australia, in New Zealand, and around the world.”

Tony Burke, Minister for the Arts, was a guest at the opening. He told the crowd: “To have a permanent office in itself is really important. It sends a message to me, it sends a message to everybody who works here that this is a permanent home of creativity in Australia for one of the biggest platforms on the planet, and that’s something to celebrate.”

Netflix in Australia

In the past four years (2019-2023) Netflix has reported its investment to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). Netflix has invested over $1 billion AUD on new Australian and Australian-related Netflix films and shows.

Between 2020 and 2023:
• Netflix productions have hired 6,000+ cast and crew in Australia
• Australian productions hired on average 600+ local vendors
• Netflix productions shot at 250+ locations (towns, cities and suburbs)
• As of October 2024, 15+ Australian titles have appeared in the Global Top 10 since the list launched in July 2021

Making the creative community stronger

“Along with our production partners and organisations like AFTRS, Bus Stop Films, and Screenworks, we’re investing in a range of training, scholarship, and attachment programs to help nurture local talent,” Peters continued. “Because we don’t just want Netflix to succeed here. We want to make the entire creative community stronger.”

Upcoming slate of Australian originals

The upcoming slate of homegrown Australian films and shows includes drama series Apple Cider Vinegar, an adaptation of Jane Harper’s mystery novel The Survivors, a standalone comedy series Son of a Donkey from Theo and Nathan Saidden and the final season of International Emmy Award-winning show Heartbreak High.

Peters concluded, “We know, like anyone who has worked here, that working in Australia and New Zealand, the talent, the facilities, the landscapes you have, they’re unparalleled, there’s no other place like it in the universe, and we want to continue that tradition and legacy going forward.”

See also:
• Netflix’s Ted Sarandos signals local commissions at Netflix launch in early 2015
• Territory preview screening for cast and crew of next big Netflix Australian original

Broadcaster Jackie O starts her new autobiography with: “I’ve always strived to be honest in my public life; however, there’s a lot I’ve kept private. Now, it’s time to tell the whole truth.”

With just days before the book is released on October 29, Jackie O read an extract on air this morning.

Tearing up as she delivered the lines, Jackie revealed she admitted herself to the Betty Ford Centre when she finished the radio year early in 2022.

The reveal on air today marks the start of a publicity campaign to promote the book. Jackie wrote the book with Nine Publishing journalist Konrad Marshall. That connection sees Jackie the star of a cover story in Good Weekend on Saturday.

Part of that story has been published online this morning.

The cover story explains how she turned to pills and alcohol while feeling “diminished, untethered and alone” in her new life.

“By that point, I had no self-esteem, so I was insecure, vulnerable, and heartbroken,” she said. “It was a recipe for disaster, and I took the coward’s way out to escape those feelings.”

Henderson has kept her secret until now to focus solely on her health, with only a small group of trusted confidantes, including her manager, personal assistant, and parents, being let in on the extent of her problem. Close friends, extended family, and even her co-host Sandilands were kept in the dark until today.

“Where do you draw the line?” she said of her decision to close ranks around the personal problem. “I just didn’t want anyone to know until I had at least gotten a year or more of sobriety under my belt.”

“I can only speak to my experience, because my addiction is so different to anyone else’s,” Henderson noted. “But people can ask me anything they want, and I’m OK with that. I brought this up, I put it out there myself, so I’m well and truly OK talking about it. I’m excited that I can be more authentic than I’ve ever been.”

[Read more]

See also: Meet Jackie O’s Bestie Gemma O’Neill – Media executive as reluctant podcast star

The advertising and media industry has come together to launch the Australian Chapter of Ad Net Zero, becoming the newest territory to undertake the mission of accelerating the decarbonisation of the advertising and marketing industry.

The launch sees the Australian Association of National Advertisers (AANA), Advertising Council Australia (ACA), Interactive Advertising Bureau Australia (IAB), and the Media Federation of Australia (MFA) today launched the Australian Chapter of Ad Net Zero.

With the launch of the Australian chapter, Ad Net Zero now operates in territories that collectively represent over 50% of the world’s ad spend.

The Australian industry’s ambition – through Ad Net Zero – is to foster the behavioural change that is necessary for Australia to transition to a sustainable future.

The Australian Chapter of Ad Net Zero will build on the important work that has been done across the industry over the past few years. Now is the time to bring the industry together to have a real impact under the banner of the global framework of Ad Net Zero.

The initiative is backed by 25 foundation supporters across the industry: Arnott’s, Big Screen Video, Benedictus Media, Dentsu, Domain, Foxtel Media, Google, GroupM, IPG Mediabrands, JCDecaux, Lion, Meta, Nestlé, News Corp Australia, Nine, NOVA, Omnicom Media Group, oOh!Media, Publicis Groupe, QMS Media, Scope3, SBS, Val Morgan Group, XR Extreme Reach, and Yahoo. It is further supported by industry bodies such as Outdoor Media Association (OMA) and Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA).

The strength of the Ad Net Zero initiative lies in its ability to empower supporters with actionable solutions: offering expert guidance, education, and training alongside a clear five-point Action Plan to actively cut carbon emissions. This ensures that the immense influence of advertising becomes a driving force for meaningful, sustainable change.

“Sustainability is no longer a peripheral issue for brands. It has been a priority for AANA’s members for some time,” AANA CEO Josh Faulks said.

“Building on all that good work, now is the optimal time for the advertising and marketing industry to come together to drive meaningful change that helps all of us transition to a more sustainable future.”

ACA CEO Tony Hale said: “ACA has been working with our members for over two years to introduce the Ad Net Zero framework. Our dedicated E&S Committee has done a terrific job in educating and encouraging members to adopt the 5-step action plan to reduce their emissions.

“The only way we can effectively make meaningful change is to adopt a whole-of-industry approach. ACA is delighted to be working alongside the AANA, IAB and the MFA as signatories to the Australian Chapter of Ad Net Zero. This is a significant industry milestone.”

IAB Australia CEO Gai Le Roy said: “Our industry is uniquely positioned to play a pivotal role in tackling the climate crisis – not only by reducing our own environmental footprint, but also leading the shift towards sustainable behaviours from businesses and consumers. The global frameworks and initiatives from Ad Net Zero combined with a strong local chapter will ensure that the industry can move forward in a collaborate and impactful way.”

MFA CEO Sophie Madden added: “After much discussion and collaboration, it’s exciting to be launching Ad Net Zero in Australia. Sustainability is an important driver for MFA members, with many agencies taking their own steps towards the goal of decarbonisation.

“By coming together for sector- wide collaboration with a shared vision for the future, we can amplify our impact and apply globally developed principles and frameworks to the local marketing, media and advertising landscape to make a difference.”

The launch of Ad Net Zero in Australia follows the establishment of territories in the UK, Ireland, US, New Zealand as well as a global supporter base. First launched in the UK in 2020, Ad Net Zero is a global industry alliance and action plan aimed at reducing the carbon impact of developing, producing, and running advertising to net zero. This initiative seeks to complement and accelerate corporate action by developing and supporting industry-level solutions, such as the much-anticipated Ad Net Zero global media sustainable framework launched at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in June.

Ad Net Zero in Australia will build on learnings from other territories to adopt and adapt the Ad Net Zero 5-point action plan to the Australian market:

1. Reduce emissions from advertising business operations
2. Reduce emissions from advertising production
3. Reduce emissions from media planning and buying
4. Reduce advertising emissions through awards and from events
5. Harness advertising’s power to influence culture and drive positive change

Vinyl Group Ltd has entered into a new commercial agreement with B2B music platform Songtradr, Inc. 

The group, which also owns Mediaweek, will represent the digital advertising inventory of Songtradr and its brands globally, expanding Vinyl Group’s presence in the advertising space.

Nine’s 60 Minutes will speak to the parents of murdered 21-year-old Lilie James this Sunday at 8:40 pm.

In October 2023, James, a water polo coach, was found murdered at St Andrew’s Cathedral School in Sydney’s CBD. Her murderer was identified as Paul Thijssen, a university student who had split with James just days prior to the murder. 

Thijssen committed suicide at Diamond Bay in Vaucluse on the same night he murdered James. 

In the promo released by 60 Minutes, Peta James, Lilie’s mother tells Tara Brown: “If you knew what he did that night, I think you’d understand why we can’t forgive what he did.”

A crime that horrified Australia. SUNDAY on #60Mins, unmasking the truth about the monster who savagely beat an innocent young woman to death. pic.twitter.com/BJSzgdXPsH

— 60 Minutes Australia (@60Mins) October 23, 2024

Her father Jamie tells Brown: “I don’t think you can wake up one day and do something that brutal.

“He can rot in hell.”

60 Minutes airs Sunday, 27 October at 8:40 pm on Nine and 9Now.

In November 2023, The Guardian accused Microsoft of damaging its journalistic reputation by publishing an AI-generated poll speculating on the cause of James’ death next to an article by the news publisher.

The poll, created by an AI program, asked: “What do you think is the reason behind the woman’s death?” Readers were then asked to choose from three options: murder, accident or suicide.

The chief executive of the Guardian Media Group, Anna Bateson, penned her concerns about the AI-generated poll in a letter to Microsoft’s president, Brad Smith.

She said the incident had caused “significant reputational damage” to the organisation as well as damaging the reputation of the journalists who wrote the story.

“This is clearly an inappropriate use of genAI [generative AI] by Microsoft on a potentially distressing public interest story, originally written and published by Guardian journalists,” she wrote.

A Microsoft spokesperson said: “We have deactivated Microsoft-generated polls for all news articles and we are investigating the cause of the inappropriate content. A poll should not have appeared alongside an article of this nature, and we are taking steps to help prevent this kind of error from reoccurring in the future.”

Guardian Australia’s flagship daily news podcast celebrates five years

Since launching in October 2019, Full Story – Guardian Australia’s flagship daily news podcast – has had more than 1350 episodes published, and it has been downloaded over 46m times.

Full Story launched on 17 October 2019, with episodes on land clearing, Robodebt and Barnaby Joyce. In its first month, it was downloaded 118k times and achieved a listenership of 55k. By 2021, 221k people were listening to Full Story every month.

Throughout the last five years, several special series have seen great success within the Full Story feed. The first major series, Australia vs the Climate was downloaded nearly 350k times. Ben Roberts Smith v the Media, launched in 2022, achieved nearly 700k downloads, and Who Screwed Millennials, released in 2024, was downloaded over 340k times.

Mediaweek spoke to associate editor of audio and visual at the Guardian, Bridie Jabour about the history of the podcast, how it has evolved, its strategy and what’s in store for the future.

In the 5 years of Full Story, how has the podcast evolved from launch to what it is now?

At the beginning, we launched with three episodes a week and a team of four people. Now we deliver episodes every weekday with bonus content on weekends during particularly newsworthy periods (at the moment you can listen to Politics Weekly America every Sunday in the Full Story feed). We have two brilliant co-hosts, Nour Haydar and Reged Ahmad and a team of eight producers and sound designers.

At its core we are still doing the same thing – bringing Guardian Australia’s rigorous, independent journalism to an audio audience, but we’ve worked on many massive projects over the years too – Who Screwed Millennials, Ben Roberts Smith vs the media and Who Cared? The Disappearance of Amber Haigh, to name a few. Combined, those series alone have had more than 1 million downloads.

As one of Australia’s leading commercial news podcasts, what is Full Story’s podcast strategy to ensure maximum listenership?

Our strategy is quite simple – being responsive to the news cycle so we can deliver the podcast on topics the audience is most interested in, presenting complex issues in an engaging way, and working on narrative podcast series we can put in the Full Story feed once or twice a year to attract even more listeners.

Our episodes used to be slightly longer and we’ve found that episodes between 18 and 22 minutes are the real sweet spot for listeners wanting to get up to date on the story of the day. Switching to a co-host model has boosted numbers as well, giving the team space to create quality episodes five days a week. This is only a hunch but I also think listeners really connect with the considered and thoughtful hosts Nour and Reged – who both have such engaging, yet different, personalities.

We see huge spikes in listenership when we do the narrative series and then work hard to keep them in the Full Story feed. We try to make sure we have a few blockbuster Full Story episodes in the next couple of weeks after narrative series launch that will keep new listeners’ attention and get them in the habit of listening every day. We’ve certainly seen sustained growth in audience this year since Who Screw Millennials was launched.

What is something that Full Story is doing that makes it stand above all other available news podcasts in the country?

You won’t find another piece of audio in Australia with the mix of timeliness and analysis that Full Story has. Being able to draw on Guardian Australia’s reporting team is a huge asset, the depth of expertise across multiple areas such as environment, social issues and politics is unmatched on any other commercial daily news podcast.

We also have a stellar international team that we call on. This year we’ve tapped into the global newsroom for insights on the US and UK elections and the Middle East among other issues. We’ve interviewed these people ourselves, but also republish episodes done by the global podcast team when they are relevant to Australia. We are not delivering the headlines, we are delivering the story in its full, vital context.

What’s in store for the podcast looking to 2025?

We are beginning work on another narrative podcast that I think could be the biggest one we have done yet. It’s unlike any other series we’ve done, and I can’t say much more than that! We also have a really exciting summer series coming up that will feature a mix of our journalists and some of Australia’s biggest names in show business and literature.

[Listen here]

LiSTNR investigates coercion and murder in a new podcast docuseries, Crime In Focus: Killer Charm

The disturbing case of a suburban grandmother who orchestrated the murder of her ex-partner via a woodchipper takes centre stage in the new LiSTNR exclusive docuseries, Crime In Focus: Killer Charm.

Host and investigative journalist Tara Cassidy examines how and why Queensland woman Sharon Graham coerced two lovers to stage Bruce Saunders’ death as an accident on a friend’s rural property.

After five years of following the story Cassidy uncovered new information about Sharon Graham and the case, and secured interviews with Graham’s former best friend, as well as her daughter and several ex- lovers who are speaking out for the very first time.

In the six-part series, listeners get access to forensic evidence, witness statements, never-before-heard covert surveillance recordings and police interviews. The investigation exposes patterns of control, greed and coercion, and sheds light on the dangers of how these behaviours emerged in a seemingly harmless woman.

“This case has intrigued me from the moment it came to light,” Tara Cassidy said. “As an investigative journalist I have covered every step of it and, in this series, I explore what drives someone to such extremes and discover if there were signs that went unnoticed before tragedy struck.

“I was able to secure unheard surveillance recordings and interviews with some of the key people in Sharon’s life, including her own daughter, to give listeners a front-row seat to one of Queensland’s most notorious murder cases in recent history.”

[Listen here]

Black T-Shirts – James Hurman

This week, Adam Ferrier and Brent Smart are joined by James Hurman, a New Zealand-based entrepreneur, investor, author and advertising effectiveness expert. James is also the founding partner of Previously Unavailable, a creative company that partners with, creates and invests into high-growth startup companies.

In this episode, James talks about working his way up from the agency IT guy to one of the world’s better-known experts on marketing and advertising effectiveness. He also unpacks his latest way of conceptualizing as activating current and future demand.

[Listen here]

Uncomfortable Growth Uncut podcast: Episode 4 – Peter Horgan, The Tensions of Leadership

Get ready to peel back the layers and meet the real Peter Horgan, or as he likes to be called, Horgs.

He’s been navigating the media scene with a cool mix of supportive leadership and a fierce drive for results. In this episode, he shares his thoughts on finding that sweet spot between backing your team and keeping them accountable—a tricky balance that can easily tip into entitlement if not handled right.

Peter opens up to Rowena Millward about some intense moments when the future looked a bit shaky. He and his crew faced the rapid changes of a competitive market and had to pivot fast to stay ahead. It’s a raw look at the pressures of keeping clients happy, the need for open conversations, and the strength of a united leadership team.

Listeners will be hooked on Peter’s journey from facing potential setbacks to bouncing back and reclaiming their spot as industry leaders. It’s all about taking those tough moments and turning them into powerful opportunities for change.

If you’re into agency leadership, client relationships, or just curious about where media is headed, this episode is packed with gems. Peter’s experience reminds us that uncomfortable growth isn’t just something to endure—it’s a chance to redefine what success means in this fast-paced world.

[Listen here]

Australian farmers are more likely to buy cars, devices and household goods than non-farmers and trust agricultural media above any other form of media, according to research by released by ACM.

The ACM Quantitative Agricultural Readership Survey (QARS) examined Australia’s multi-billion dollar farming industry, and presented a comprehensive view of the modern farmer and farming family, attitudes, behaviours, purchase decisions and media habits.

Key findings in the report include farmers having an average equity of 92% in their farm businesses and having a gross average income of $537,000 per annum.

On average, farmers own or manage 2.1 properties and women are involved in every aspect of decision-making in the farm business, according to the report. 

The report also noted the importance of considering a farmer’s lifestyle when advertising products and services, as they are up early, lead outdoor lifestyles, and are governed by seasons and weather.

ACM Agri, ACM’s network of websites, newspapers and events informing Australia’s thriving Agricultural industry, is used by 78% of farmers and is their number one media source, followed by free-to-air commercial TV, ABC Radio, direct mail and ABC Television.

Agricultural news is a constant for farmers throughout the day, peaking in the early hours of the morning, at lunchtime and in the evening. The research found that to effectively connect with farmers, brands need to utilise a combination of print and digital as the consumption of digital is still in transition.

The study revealed only 23% of farmers’ television viewing time is on free-to-air TV, while print is the number one way farmers like to read their news. It also reported that 87% of farmers have taken action after seeing an ad in ACM Agri’s websites or newspapers.

The agricultural industry news is the most trusted media by farmers and is reported as essential reading and necessary for farm business decision-making

Social media is the least trusted medium, and young farmers were found to have the highest distrust of social media than any other age group.

“Australia’s farming industry is a critical driver of our economy with Ag production forecast to rise to $86 billion,” ACM managing director, Tony Kendall, said. “It’s a fundamental part of our cultural fabric, however, there remains a lack of understanding of farmers, their attitudes and behaviour and media consumption habits. Our QARS research study lifts the lid on our farmers’ lives and the importance of agricultural media to their businesses.

“Farmers are at the centre of everything ACM Agri does and as Australia’s largest provider of agricultural news, we play the most influential role in keeping farmers connected through our content, digital solutions, events, marketplaces and tech solutions.

“We have incredible opportunities for advertisers to bring them closer to the farming audience including our enhanced data capabilities that will allow clients to match and target their data with our engaged audience and The Australian Agricultural Awards in partnership with the National Farmers Federation that will celebrate the best of the best in this country. The next six months are pivotal and we look forward to bringing brands on the journey.”

The research study has been presented at a number of key invitation-only events for advertisers and media buyers to help understand the farming industry, its importance to advertisers and the influential role of ACM Agri.

–

Top image: Scott McCullough, Tony Kendall, Nick Myer (Elders), Danny Thomas (LAWD)

Canva co-founders Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht have topped the Financial Review 2024 Young Rich List for the fifth year in a row with an estimated net worth of $14 billion.

The couple, aged 37 and 38 respectively, have gained $1 billion in a year and have a $9 billion lead on the next Young Rich Lister, Ed Craven, the co-founder of online cryptocurrency casino site stake.com who has a wealth of $4.8 billion.

The full Financial Review Young Rich List will be available tomorrow, Friday, 25 October on afr.com and in a special edition of The Australian Financial Review Magazine.

In his last year of qualifying for the Young Rich List, Sam Prince, the 40-year-old founder of Mexican restaurant chain Zambrero, lifted his wealth to $1.8 billion, up from $1.6 billion last year, retaining the #3 spot.

In fourth spot, and making their debut in the top five, are brothers Robbie and James Ferguson with $1.7 billion combined. Their wealth has leapt 50 per cent thanks to the increasing value of their IMX cryptocurrency tokens.

Airwallex co-founder Jack Zhang rounds out the top five, with an estimated wealth of $1.3 billion, down from $1.4 billion. Other billionaires aged 40 and under include LMCT+’s Adrian Portelli, Huno Group’s Robert Chamberlain and Afterpay’s Nick Molnar.

Margot Robbie has become Australia’s richest entertainer under 40, with a wealth pile of $191 million, up from $152 million last year to come in at #31.

Australia’s wealthiest Young Rich sport star is once again basketball star Ben Simmons, worth $244 million (#20) followed by F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo, who despite having a horror season on the track that ended with him retiring from the sport, managed to increase his wealth by $20 million to $187 million (#32).

The Financial Review Young Rich List 2024 Highlights:

Top 10 (worth a collective $28.9 billion)

1 Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht, 37 & 38, $14 billion – Canva
2 Ed Craven, 29, $4.8 billion – Stake.com
3 Sam Prince, 40, $1.8 billion – Zambrero,
4 Robbie and James Ferguson, Immutable
5 Jack Zhang, 39, $1.3 billion – Airwallex
6 Adrian Portelli, 35, $1.3 billion – LMCT+
7 Robert Chamberlain, 40, $1.2 billion – Huno Group
8 Nicholas Molnar, 33, $1.1 billion – Afterpay
9 Jacob Dai, 40, $898 million – Airwallex
10 Max Li, 40, $716 million – Airwallex

Entertainment

1. Margot Robbie, 34, $191 million – Actress (#31)
2. Kevin Parker (Tame Impala), 38, $40 million – Musician (#99)
3. Vance Joy (James Keogh), 36, $38 million – Musician (#100)

Sport

1. Ben Simmons, 28, $244 million (#20) – Basketballer
2. Daniel Ricciardo, 35, $187 million (#32) – F1 driver
3. Cameron Smith, 32, $151 million (#38) – Golfer
4. Jason Day, 35, $148 million (#39) – Golfer
5. Andrew Bogut, 39, $120 million (#47) – Retired basketballer

Seven West Media’s The Nightly has launched The Nightly On series, a premium quarterly magazine available across Australia and published online.

The quarterly series, which kicks off with The Nightly On Leadership, will focus on major themes of the new economy impacting business, politics and the broader society, including exclusive in-depth interviews with thought-leaders, innovators and change-makers.

The Nightly editor-in-chief, Christopher Dore, said The Nightly is a new media digital disrupter that has already had a dramatic impact.

“The Nightly On magazine series takes readers on a new journey that beautifully complements the focus of the daily digital edition that so many Australian leaders in business and politics and society have already made an essential part of their daily lives,” he said.

The Nightly On Leadership is out today and includes exclusive interviews with Seven Group Holdings managing director and chief executive officer, Ryan Stokes; Harvey Norman executive director and chief executive officer, Katie Page; Google Australia managing director, Melanie Silva; BHP president, Australia, Geraldine Slattery; OzHarvest founder, Ronni Kahn; K mart group managing director, Ian Bailey; and Virgin Group founder, Sir Richard Branson.

Magazine editor Jay Hanna said: “The Nightly On Leadership explores the theme of modern leadership – what it takes to navigate the fast evolving world of business, plus how to rise to the top and stay there. Our in-depth interviews provide insight into the mindset, skills and experiences that have helped some of our most celebrated leaders achieve long-term success. It is a must read for anyone who harbours an ambition to lead.”

New industry-audited IPSOS iris figures show The Nightly has a unique audience of 2.54 million Australians. Almost 30% of its audience is aged under 40 and 28% is aged 40 to 54, while two thirds of its audience live on the east coast.

The Nightly’s international coverage features stories and columns from The New York Times, The Economist, The Washington Post, CNBC and London’s Daily Mail newspaper.

By Josh Gurgiel, head of oOh!media’s innovation and creative hub, POLY

Fame has become a more accessible and fleeting currency, available to anyone with a smartphone and the right attitude. Brands face a new landscape where their share of voice competes not just with direct rivals but with the endless sea of content consumers encounter daily.

Out-of-home (OOH) media plays a crucial role in this battle for mental availability, providing brands with a creative, unmissable platform to drive both short-term spikes of attention and long-term subconscious resonance, write Josh Gurgiel, head of POLY, oOh!media’s innovation and content hub.

Lee Stephens has launched his new agency offering to the market, Meerkat Media, aimed at reshaping the way brands engage with audiences in an increasingly complex media landscape.

By leveraging media, technology, and AI, Meerkat Media will create compelling media moments that cut through the clutter, helping brands connect authentically with their audiences.

“The reality is consumers now engage with content across multiple channels simultaneously, making traditional audience tracking methods obsolete,” Stephens said.

“Meerkat focuses on creating standout moments that inspire audiences to follow and engage with brands. By tapping into what makes each brand unique, we build media moments that not only capture attention but also generate actionable results.”

“Meerkat Media integrates cutting-edge technology to design smarter, data-powered media strategies. The platform gathers and analyzes data from various sources—internal sales, media performance, or trusted third-party providers—to create predictive and practical campaigns. Meerkat’s mission is to transform raw data into insights that deliver measurable impact for its clients,” he added.

Stephens, who has been a key driver of media innovation for over 20 years having worked with Fairfax Media, Emitch Media and Aegis, will be joined by Per Tinberg as the agency’s managing director.

As commercial director of Fairfax Digital in the early 2000s Lee’s team brought Fairfax’s digital arm to profit, after years of significant losses. Moving agency side, he became CEO of ASX listed Emitch Media, the digital arm of Mitchell Media, (now Dentsu), and raised over $200m in shareholder value.

Per Tinberg and Lee Stephen

He moved on to global media buying group, Aegis Media in 2007. During his tenure the struggling Australian and New Zealand businesses were the fastest turnaround countries in the world. Lee was also head of digital for APAC, introducing global search brand iProspect to the region and established Aegis Australia as a media, activation and digital group in a hyper competitive market.

In late 2010 he moved to become a key shareholder of independent digital agency, Switch Digital. Over 12 years the business delivered successful outcomes for Australia’s most iconic brands and regional advertisers.

Tinberg has over ten years of experience working across independent agencies. In 2013 he joined the Digital Marketing Agency and assisted in growing sales for several brands across Sydney.

In 2016, he moved to Switch Digital and oversaw major media strategies for brands such as Football Australia, Nokia, Jenny Craig and Nufarm Australia.

Tinberg led his teams through a media industry in upheaval and transformation. He was also a valuable contributor to the launch team of industry first innovations including Australia’s first independent CTV platforms, EngageTV and onthefarm.tv.

“AI and privacy protection are the modern angst of marketers. Failing to leverage data from your marketing investment squanders an opportunity, while misusing it risks eroding customer trust.  At Meerkat, data security is at the heart of our AI and Privacy services,” Tinberg said.

“We collaborate with partners to craft custom AI solutions that reliably predict audiences and locate areas of demand based on real data and your current marketing investment. Every solution is unique, tailored to drive impactful growth for our clients and unlock future opportunities for creating compelling media moments,” he added.

The agency launches in Sydney with 4 key staff and clients, including a financial services brand, soon to be announced.

–

Top image: Lee Stephens and Per Tinberg

Fresh from his sessions at SXSW Sydney, The Kid Laroi will perform live in Nova’s Red Room on Friday, 15 November 2024.

This exclusive money-can’t-buy experience will be held at the iconic live music venue Selina’s at Coogee Bay Hotel, a venue with room for 500 lucky fans.

The Kid Laroi previously treated fans to a virtual Q&A for a Red Room Live Stream event, but this time he’s appearing in person with a full live performance.

Speaking about the announcement, The Kid Laroi shared: “I’m so excited to be back in Australia performing on the Nova Red Room Stage! Getting to perform live in such an intimate setting for my fans is what it’s all about. See you all in Sydney!”

The November Red Room appearance coincides with The Lid Laroi’s The First Time Tour, with special guests Quavo and ONEFOUR. Laroi is performing in arenas across Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and Hobart.

Brendan Taylor, group programming director for the Nova Network, commented: “Australian artists are dominating the international scene, and The Kid Laroi is leading the charge. His incredible achievements have inspired so many, and we’re thrilled to have him return to Nova’s Red Room. This performance is set to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our listeners.”

The Red Room has seen over 300 international and local artists perform live for fans, including Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith, Lizzo, Miley Cyrus, Tones And I, G Flip and Billie Eilish. Fans can check out previous performances and content from Nova’s Red Room events, as well as this latest Nova’s Red Room performance, via The Nova Player or on Nova’s socials.

How to secure Nova’s Red Room access

Listeners can win their way to attend the exclusive Red Room event by listening to Fitzy & Wippa With Kate Ritchie, locally on Nova 96.9 or entering via The Nova Player and getting a call back from Nova’s The Chrissie Swan Show, the Ricki-Lee, Tim & Joel drive show; Ben, Liam & Belle’s late drive or Smallzy’s Surgery at night.

See also: Angus & Julia Stone play exclusive gig for Nova 96.9 listeners

TikTok has unveiled the 65 finalists nominated for the 2024 Awards across 13 categories, hosted by Robert Irwin and featuring JoJo Siwa as its international guest.
 
Melbourne-based creator, Leah Halton, is nominated for Video of the Year, with her viral lip-syncing video amassing 916 million views, making it one of the most-watched videos around the world in 2024.

Maddy MacRae, nominated for Creator of the Year, experienced a meteoric rise, after posting comedy sketches to now being a full-time content creator with nearly two million followers. Paralympics Australia are up for TikTok for Good, after taking to TikTok to share the powerful stories of determination and achievement of incredible para-athletes at the games.

Siwa, who boasts a community of over 45 million followers on TikTok, will bring her new music and energetic moves to the Hordern Pavillion.
 
“After four long years, it’s going to be freaking amazing to return to Australia – I’ve even gotten a kangaroo tattoo since my last visit!” the singer said.

“On TikTok I get to connect with fans all over the world and share my music with them, and now I get to do both with my Aussie fans in real life at the TikTok Awards,” Siwa added.

Conservationist, TV personality, and TikTok star, Robert Irwin will take centre stage as this year’s host. He’ll be joined by former Creator of the Year winners Indy Clinton and Kat Clark as roaming co-hosts. Last year’s awards drew over 2.2 million viewers, and this year’s event, set for 27th November, promises to be even bigger. Fans will have even more ways to tune in, with the awards streaming on LIVE on @tiktok_australia, with replays available on BINGE, FOX8, and Kayo Sports.

Simon Bates, head of content for TikTok Australia and New Zealand, said, this year’s awards are going to be the biggest and best yet. “We’ve added new categories, have a record number of nominees, and exciting new brand partners. From creators who’ve made us laugh, learn, and discover new things, through to those who’ve shaped trends and inspired millions, this night is all about celebrating their incredible impact on TikTok.

“It’s now up to the Australian and New Zealand TikTok community to vote to decide who takes out the awards,” said Simon.

The finalists for this year’s TikTok Awards are:

Creator of the Year, presented by CeraVe: The night’s top honour, awarded to the creator who made the biggest impact in 2024.
• Bridey Drake – @brideydrake
• Elle Ray – @elleray
• Jonah Singer – @jojoasmr
• Josh Jessup & Matt Moss – @joshandmattdesign
• Maddy Macrae – @maddy_macrae_

Video of the Year, presented by Tinder: Awarded to the TikTok video that went viral, sparked a trend, and created the most joy in 2024.
• Cleo Massey’s hilarious pregnancy reveal
• Neil the Seal finding a new home
• Leah Halton’s iconic lip-sync video
• SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium’s chonky baby penguin Pesto
• Insert Richie’s epic unboxing

TikTok for Good: Celebrating the creator or organisation using TikTok to drive positive change.
• Paralympics Australia- @ausparalympics
• Edgar’s Mission – @edgarsmission
• James ‘Chappo’ Chapman – @james13chapman_
• Lottie Dalziel – @lottiedalziel
• Stephanie Coral Browitt – @stephaniecoral96

TikTok Business of the Year: Awarded to the business that made big moves on TikTok, built a loyal customer base, and grew sales in 2024.
• Brooki Bakehouse, Brooke Saward – @brookibakehouse
•  Chebbo’s Burgers, Ali Chebbani – @chebbo
• Fayt the Label, Brittany Saunders – @faytlabel
• Jaz Hand Made, Jasmine Hand – @jazhandmade
• Kaladé, Kat Clark – @kalade

Sport & Fitness Creator of the Year: Awarded to the creator who led the way in sports and fitness, inspiring us to stay active and healthy throughout 2024.
• Adam Sullivan, @evidencebased_training
• Beth Carlino, @bethcarlinofitness
• Gold medallist Jessica Fox, @jessfoxcanoe
• Olympic Diver turned commentator Sam Fricker, @samfricker
• Olympic Boxer Tina Rahimi, @tinarahimii_

Food Creator of the Year: A brand-new category celebrating the creator who inspired us to cook delicious meals in 2024.
• Fatimah Omran, @fatimahomran
• Iain ‘Huey’ Hewitson, @huey_on_tiktok
• Lily Huynh, @biteswithlily
• Michael Finch, @michaelfinch
• Victoria Minell, @victoriaminell

–

Top image: Jonah Singer, Bridey Drake, Elle Ray, Maddy Macrae, Josh Jessup, Matt Moss

Tuesday 22 October 2024: VOZ Total TV Ratings Overnight Top 30 – Programs ranked on reach

Total People TV Ratings

Nine’s The Block recorded a total TV national reach of 1,837,000, a total TV national audience of 1,098,000, and a BVOD audience of 164,000.

Nine’s 9News recorded a total TV national reach of 1,872,000, a total TV national audience of 1,150,000, and a BVOD audience of 93,000.

Seven’s Seven News recorded a total TV national reach of 2,069,000, a total TV national audience of 1,269,000, and a BVOD audience of 64,000.

Also on Seven, My Kitchen Rules recorded a total TV national reach of 1,596,000, a total TV national audience of 884,000, and a BVOD audience of 82,000.

After a tense cook-off in MKR’s Kitchen HQ, loved-up couple Hannah and Lawrence were eliminated from the competition. Manu and Colin also dropped a bombshell on MKR’s remaining top five teams: they will all be heading around the country again for the Ultimate Instant Restaurant Round.

10’s airing of Taskmaster Australia recorded a total TV national reach of 859,000, a total TV national audience of 382,000, and a BVOD audience of 18,000.

People 25-54

Nine’s The Block:
• Total TV nation reach: 717,000
• National Audience: 473,000
• BVOD Audience: 99,000

Seven’s Seven News:
• Total TV nation reach: 535,000
• National Audience: 306,000
• BVOD Audience: 33,000

Seven’s My Kitchen Rules:
• Total TV nation reach: 482,000
• National Audience: 253,000
• BVOD Audience: 44,000

10’s Taskmaster:
• Total TV nation reach: 385,000
• National Audience: 194,000 
• BVOD Audience: 12,000

People 16-39

Nine’s The Block:
• Total TV nation reach: 301,000
• National Audience: 201,000
• BVOD Audience: 57,000

Seven’s Seven News:
• Total TV nation reach: 189,000
• National Audience: 102,000
• BVOD Audience: 17,000

Seven’s My Kitchen Rules:
• Total TV nation reach: 182,000
• National Audience: 86,000
• BVOD Audience: 23,000

10’s Taskmaster:
• Total TV nation reach: 187,000
• National Audience: 96,000 
• BVOD Audience: 7,000

Grocery Shoppers 18+ TV Ratings

Nine’s The Block:
• Total TV nation reach: 1,436,000
• National Audience: 858,000
• BVOD Audience: 131,000

Seven’s Seven News:
• Total TV nation reach: 1,664,000
• National Audience: 1,038,000
• BVOD Audience: 51,000

Seven’s My Kitchen Rules:
• Total TV nation reach: 1,285,000
• National Audience: 724,000
• BVOD Audience: 66,000

10’s Taskmaster:
• Total TV nation reach: 632,000
• National Audience: 274,000 
• BVOD Audience: 14,000

Data © OzTAM and Regional TAM 2024. Not to be reproduced, published or communicated (electronically or in hard copy) in whole or in part, without prior written consent of OzTAM and Regional TAM.