FremantleMedia Australia launches low-cost division

FremantleMedia is launching a new production arm in Australia to produce low-cost programming and ad-funded content.

The new division Spring will be run by FremantleMedia Australia managing director Tony Skinner and will aim to produce non-primetime programming and content for the growing number of digital channels that are looking for original content.

It comes after local body Screen Australia found that the proportion of local programming on free-to-air in Australia fell from 52% in 2008 to 38% this year.

FremantleMedia Asia Pacific CEO said that the division will be similar to a low cost airline. “Spring has been born to create quality content to meet the growing demand from broadcasters and our other partners for new types of programming and collaborative projects,” he said. “FremantleMedia will always be our premium product for high value, tent pole programming, whereas Spring will cater to the other end of the market which is not currently being serviced properly.”

FremantleMedia Australia was formed in 2006 when Grundy Television was merged with Crackerjack Productions and produces series including Australia’s Got Talent, The X Factor, Neighbours and Farmer Wants A Wife.