Modernizing Canada’s broadcasting framework
Working together to create the broadcasting framework of the future
Now available – List of registered broadcasting ownership groups
As part of the CRTC’s actions to modernize Canada’s broadcasting framework, online streaming services that operate in Canada, offer broadcasting content, and earn $10 million or more in annual broadcasting revenues have to provide basic information about their activities in Canada.
With the adoption of the Online Streaming Act (Bill C-11), the CRTC is working towards modernizing Canada’s broadcasting framework and ensuring that online streaming services make meaningful contributions to Canadian and Indigenous content. Creators will have opportunities to tell their stories and Canadians will have access to a greater variety and diversity of content.
Check out our phased-approach to modernize Canada’s broadcasting framework.
Registration of online streaming services
Learn about the criteria to register, exemptions, and how to register.
Myths and Facts about Bill C-11, the Online Streaming Act
Learn the real facts.
Phased approach
We are taking a phased approach to modernize Canada’s broadcasting framework. The views of Canadians will be important at every step, and we encourage everyone who is interested to participate in our public consultations.
The 3 phases
Phase 1: Getting started – in progress (launched spring 2023)
This phase will lay the groundwork. In this phase, we will:
- consult on a registration requirement for certain online streaming services;
- review exemption orders and possible basic conditions of service; and
- start to develop a framework for contributions that will apply to traditional broadcasters and online streaming services.
Phase 1 included three public consultations. More consultations will take place during the next phases.
Contributions to the Canadian broadcasting system
We are examining what contributions traditional broadcasters and online services need to make to support Canadian and Indigenous content.
Closed for comments.
Registration of online streaming services
The new regulations will require certain streaming services to be registered with the CRTC.
This consultation will consider how this should be done. It will also help define who will not need to register.
Decision issued.
Exemption orders and basic conditions of service
This consultation will consider changes to exemptions orders and whether to place some basic conditions on certain online streaming services.
Decision issued.
Phase 2: Building a new regulatory framework – in progress (launched summer 2023)
In phase 2, we will:
- consult on proposed new broadcasting fees regulations;
- review the definitions of Canadian content and consider definitions of Indigenous content;
- look deeper into important policy issues; and
- make key decisions about a new regulatory framework.
We are reviewing fees paid by broadcasters and how they should be extended to online streaming services.
Decision issued.
Phase 3: Implementing the new regulatory framework (targeting launch late 2024)
Phase 3 will focus on how the regulatory framework will be put into action. Details will follow.
Related links
- Broadcasting Information Bulletin CRTC 2023-137: Guidance on the current Broadcasting Act and the transitional provisions of the Online Streaming Act
- Contribution and Discoverability Obligations in Various Countries Around the World
Information for industry
If you are a streaming service, a radio or TV broadcaster, or a distributor, we are here to answer your questions.
Please give us a call: 1-866-781-1911
Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Eastern time)
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