Nine CEO Sees Growth in Publishing with New AI Laws 2026

The Nine CEO sees a world of growth in publishing driven by new AI laws, even as the network slashes costs across its newsrooms. Matt Stanton's optimistic outlook comes as Parliament passes revamped media bargaining laws, aiming to force tech giants like Google and Meta into fair commercial deals with Australian news outlets.

New AI Laws and Media Bargaining

The recently passed legislation introduces levies on global tech platforms that fail to reach agreements with Australian publishers. This move is designed to ensure that journalism is fairly compensated when used by platforms like Google and Meta. Nine's CEO expects these contributions to match the levels seen under the 2021 arrangement.

Stanton highlighted the potential for growth, stating, "There's a number of variables that fly around, not just in news media bargaining, but yes, there is a world of growth in publishing." This sentiment reflects a broader industry push for sustainable revenue models in the digital age.

AI Deals and Future Prospects

Nine has also been proactive in forging AI partnerships, recently signing an agreement with Microsoft to allow Copilot access to its content. Stanton mentioned a "good pipeline" of AI deals, indicating a strategic focus on leveraging technology to enhance content distribution and monetization.

Cost-Cutting Measures and Challenges

Despite the optimistic outlook, Nine is navigating a challenging period, implementing over $160 million in cost reductions over three years. The company recently announced redundancies at the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, responding to a prolonged weak advertising market. These measures are part of a broader restructuring to ensure long-term sustainability.

Key Takeaways

• New laws could boost publishing revenue through tech platform levies.
• AI deals, like with Microsoft, open new content monetization avenues.
• Nine is cutting costs to offset advertising market weakness.
• Future growth hinges on successful negotiations with tech giants.

These developments signal a transformative period for Australian media, balancing regulatory pressure with innovative partnerships. As Nine navigates these changes, its strategies may serve as a blueprint for other publishers facing similar challenges.

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