The NBN Has Suggested Introducing A 'Streaming Tax' For Services Like Netflix And Stan

If you're like the more than 11 million Aussies who have a Netflix account, then you're bound to enjoy your streaming.

Whether it's dramas like Stranger Things, thrillers like Black Mirror or just your favourite movies, streaming services like Netflix and Stan have been slowly cementing their spot in Australia.

But that position could be in jeopardy if the National Broadband Network goes through with a proposal to introduce a tax on streaming services.

The NBN has put a bunch questions to Retail Service Providers, the internet companies who provide broadband to Australia, and one focuses on whether a fee should be incurred by people who stream movies or TV shows.

Netflix

"Would your organisation support the development of a price response whereby charging of streaming video could be differentiated from the charging of other traffic/services? Would your organisation be likely to productise such a mechanism if developed by NBN?" the question read.

Essentially, the NBN would add on a surcharge for people who use streaming services, in addition to using the internet for surfing the web.

Of course it's worth noting that it's only a question at this stage and it's not something that is being brought in any time soon.

NBN general manager of commercial Ken Walliss told nine.com.au: "We're interested in engaging in a constructive dialogue with Retail Service Providers (RSPs) and the industry about any challenges and opportunities they may face.

"Video streaming is an important part of using broadband for many customers and a significant proportion of overall internet traffic and future traffic growth, and one of the particular areas where we are seeking feedback.

stockcatalog/Creative Commons

"We are focused on seeking specific comments from RSPs in this area. At this stage, we are seeking input from industry on whether they believe it is an area that requires attention and, if so, we are open to possible ideas they may wish to suggest."

Because it's the very, very early stages of the question, there's no idea how much customers would have to pay, but one thing's for certain, they would be upset.

RMIT University electronic and telecommunications associate professor Mark Gregory told nine.com.au: "The cost of internet is already higher than it should be in Australia and by putting an additional charge on streaming media - the primary use of internet for the vast majority of households - it would reduce usage on the network because some people couldn't afford the service."

We'll have to wait and see what happens.

Topics: TV and Film, Technology, Australia

Stewart Perrie

Stewart Perrie is a Trending Journalist at LADbible. His first job was as a newsreader and journalist at the award winning Sydney radio station, Macquarie Radio. He was solely responsible for the content broadcast on multiple stations across Australia when the MH17, Germanwings and AirAsia disasters unfolded. Stewart has covered the conflict in Syria for LADbible, interviewing a doctor on the front line, and has contributed to the hugely successful UOKM8 campaign.

@stewartperrie