Media Release
21 September, 2009
Taking Australian Children's TV to the World
A high-powered television trade mission will visit South Korea this week to promote Australian expertise in children’s television production.
The mission will be looking for opportunities to partner with Korean companies to deliver content through a range of emerging digital platforms – including mobile phone technology.
Korea is a “test market” because of its rapid uptake of new technology.
Trade Minister Simon Crean said Australia has a proud record in children’s television programs with successful shows such as Bananas in Pyjamas, The Wiggles, Hi-Five, Play School, Blinky Bill and Magic Mountain.
“The world is hungry for television content and we have some of the best children’s shows in the world and some of the most creative people,” he said.
“A partnership with Korea could help deliver Australian children’s programs to a wider Asian and global audience.”
“South Korea is a high-tech nation with a strong animation sector which means there are big opportunities for Australian children’s content production.”
“This hi-tech partnership highlights the potential of Australia’s trade relationship with South Korea,” Mr Crean said.
There is great potential in children’s television production. The Wiggles in 2005 were named the Australian exporter of the year and in 2007-8 they grossed $45 million.
Representatives of ABC Television and the Australia-Korea Foundation (AKF) will participate in the mission which is supported by Austrade.
The visit from 22 to 24 September will be led by Professor Mike Miller, a board member of the AKF, along with AKF Board members, Kim Dalton, Director of ABC TV, and Dr Rodney Hall, a leading Australian author.
Director of ABC TV Kim Dalton said Australia’s talented children’s content producers could benefit from closer interaction with key players in South Korea.
“The success of this sector has always relied on Australian producers’ capacity to develop international co-funding and co-production relationships.”
“Helping foster links between Australia and South Korea’s production sectors and public broadcasters will also help build partnerships and create opportunities to reach a wider audience,” he said.
In Korea, about 80% of households are connected to the internet.
South Korea is Australia’s sixth largest two-way trading partner and Free Trade Agreement talks between the nations began in May this year.
Media Inquiries: Mr Crean’s office, Clinton Porteous: 0403 369 588 Austrade, David Varga, 02 9390 2191