According to a new report by economics firm ACIL Allen, since 1988, Home and Away have brought in a whopping $1 billion in export earnings to Australia.
The popular TV show has consistently employed between 1,500 and 2,000 people each year, both in front of and behind the camera, and 33% of viewers in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and New Zealand stated the show piqued their interest in visiting Australia.
All information is correct. As Home and Away’s arch-rival Neighbours prepares to bid goodbye, Seven West Media CEO James Warburton is no doubt ecstatic.
‘For the first time, this analysis reflects the show’s huge impact on the Australian economy, our television landscape, our community, and Australia’s foreign reputation,’ Mr Warburton said in a media statement on Wednesday.
‘[It] is one big ad for Australia. And a good plug for television as an effective marketing platform.
Mr. Warburton went on to say that he was delighted with the show’s influence on viewers.
‘Good Australian programming has far-reaching consequences that go beyond the number of people who view it every day,’ he continued.
‘It enriches the social fabric of Australia. It informs voters. It holds the powerful to account. It tells stories. It provides employment. It promotes Australian tourism.
The news comes as renowned TV competitor Neighbours, which has been on Australian television for 37 years, comes to an end.
Kylie Minogue and Hollywood actress Margot Robbie were among the show’s most famous alumni.
In March, Neighbours tweeted that production on the long-running soap would come to an end.
‘We are so sorry to say that after nearly 37 years and almost 9,000 episodes broadcast we have to confirm that Neighbours will cease production in June,’ the show wrote.
‘Following the loss of our key broadcast partner in the UK [Channel 5] and despite an extensive search for alternative funding, we simply have no option but to rest the show.
‘To our amazing, loyal fans, we know this is a huge disappointment, as it is to all of us on the team. We thank you for all your messages and support and promise to end the show on an incredible high. From here on, we are celebrating Neighbours.’
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