The Seven Network has backed the Federal Government's decision to amend the producer offset tax legislation, a move that will see the network's long-standing drama series, Home and Away, benefit from a 30% rebate. This amendment is seen as a significant boost for local TV drama productions in Australia.

James Warburton, Seven West Media's Managing Director and CEO, publicly thanked the Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, and the Albanese Government for the legislative change. He emphasised the crucial role Home and Away plays in the Australian television sector.

In response to the tax change, Seven has unveiled new initiatives for Home and Away, including the launch of a new internship program and an investment in more location filming, particularly in regional Australia.

Home and Away, which is heading into its 37th season next year, is one of the most-watched programs on Australian TV, reaching over three million viewers every week. The show has also made its mark globally, having been sold to more than 140 countries.

A report from ACIL Allen last year revealed that Home and Away had contributed more than $7.5 billion to Australia's GDP since its inception and generated almost 13,000 employee years of full-time equivalent direct and indirect jobs in Australia. The report also found that the show had boosted Australia's tourism appeal as a destination in the UK, Ireland and New Zealand by 33%.

"We would like to acknowledge and thank... the Albanese Government for their decision to amend the legislation and for recognising the vital role Home and Away plays in the Australian television sector," Warburton said.

Warburton said the rebate will bolster Home and Away's domestic and international appeal, ensuring its competitiveness as an Australian drama and reinforcing its significant contribution to the Australian TV industry and culture.

Angus Ross, Seven's Chief Content Officer, Entertainment Programming, stated: "Our new investment in 'Home and Away', made possible by the Government's decision, will strengthen its future, enable it to tell even more great Australian stories and create a new pathway for people who want to be part of that sector."