Interview: Leah Hooper [Head of Audience Reserach for Foxtel]

(Phone and E-mail interview transcript)

Leah Hooper
FOXTEL Head of Audience Research

Question: Are there more Asian films and television (eg. serial dramas, news, documentaries) being brought into Australia and why is this so?

Yes, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of TV hours broadcast across free-to-air (FTA) and subscription TV (STV) over the last 12 months with the launch of 5 digital FTA channels and 30+ STV channels across all genres.

Question: How is the market for Asian film and television different from the past as compared to what is now?

There was not as many programs and hours used to broadcast Asian content in the past back as compared to the amount of hours that they dedicate to broadcasting now.

Question: How many channels are there in Foxtel currently airing Asian film and television?

Cannot answer – please refer to the latest TV guide and look at the Movies, General Entertainment and documentary channels. If you would like I can arrange for a FOXTEL magazine to be sent to you.

Question: How many hours are given for Asian film and television a day/week?

Please refer to individual channels and their programming departments for these questions.

Question: Will there be an increase in the amount of Asian film and television channels being brought in?

Depends on the individual channels programming strategies. Have a look at the Showtime Action channel – I suspect they are broadcasting a significant amount of Asian Films. This channel launched in November 2009.