A very strong move from Stan to announce they’re commissioning original content for the SVOD service. Netflix have made lots of noise that their approach is to deliver original content regularly on their platform and for Stan to do the same sets a very good precedent for its longevity in the Australian market. From the press release:
STAN INVESTS IN AUSTRALIAN PRODUCTION WITH FIRST TWO DEVELOPMENT DEALS

Stan, the Australian subscription video-on-demand service, today announced the first two production development deals under its original programming plans. The first of several deals to be announced in the coming months, these two high-profile projects are currently in development with the Stan programming team who are committed to producing high-quality content.

The Wolf Creek drama series comes from the creative forces behind the phenomenally successful Wolf Creek films and the smash-hit Underbelly television series. This series is being developed by writer/director Greg McLean (Wolf Creek, Rogue), writer/producer Peter Gawler (Underbelly), writer Felicity Packard (Underbelly) and executive producer Greg Haddrick (Underbelly, Anzac Girls).

Also in development, from the producers of the award-winning Rake, is the political drama Enemies of the State, based on the life of Lionel Murphy, one of Australia’s most controversial political figures. The series will be developed by writer/producer Peter Duncan (Rake), writers Tony Jones (Q&A Host) and Robert Connolly (Paper Planes, Gallipoli) and producer Ian Collie (Rake, Jack Irish, Saving Mr Banks).

“Original productions have always been part of Stan’s programming plans. Before we move to the commissioning stage, we are thrilled to be working with such talented local writers and producers to kick off the development slate,” Nick Forward, Stan’s Director of Content and Product, said.

“The opportunity to create world-class shows outside the constraints of the traditional TV schedule is a fantastic brief for any producer, and we look forward to working with the best local and international creatives to bring fresh and exciting stories to the screen.”

Wolf Creek

From Screentime, a Banijay Group company, and Emu Creek Pictures, Wolf Creek is planned as a six-part series. Wolf Creek reimagined for television will be a compelling, psychologically complex and visually spectacular suspense series driven by a young woman’s quest for justice. Star of the Wolf Creek films, John Jarratt, is attached to reprise his role of the iconic villain, Mick Taylor.

Bob Campbell, Managing Director of Screentime, a Banijay Group company, said: “We are delighted to be working with the team at Stan and joining with Greg McLean and Emu Creek Pictures to develop Wolf Creek as a drama series.

“Under Greg Haddrick’s leadership Screentime has produced some of the most creative and commercially successful drama series in recent years – including Underbelly, Janet King and Anzac Girls. Combine this with Greg McLean’s unique skills in this genre and you have the potential for a compelling, edge-of-the-seat series.”

Emu Creek Pictures CEO, Greg McLean, said: “Wolf Creek and the character of Mick Taylor have become household names, and the opportunity to tell a rich and complex story in his world in a high-quality drama series is a thrilling creative opportunity. Plus, I couldn’t be more excited about collaborating with the Screentime team who consistently create outstanding entertainment.”

Enemies of the State

From Essential Media and Entertainment and Little Mates, Enemies of the State is also planned as a six-part series. The story of controversial Australian High Court Judge and Attorney-General Lionel Murphy has all the elements of a Shakespearean drama: a charming and brilliant hero, political plotting and intrigue, police spies, assassination attempts, dedicated enemies and beloved friends in power, a beautiful young wife, scandal, public denouncement and redemption.

Peter Duncan, writer and producer, said: “Tony Jones, Robert Connolly and I are bringing to life one of the great untold stories of Australian political drama. Lionel Murphy changed the nation in his time. And in pursuit of that change he brought against himself forces of enormous power who were determined to destroy him, but one of Lionel Murphy’s greatest enemies was himself. It’s very exciting to be working with Stan who are game-changers in entertainment and the way Australians view television.”

About Stan

Stan is a world-class subscription video-on-demand service for Australian consumers. Stan offers unlimited access to thousands of hours of entertainment, with first-run exclusives, award-winning TV shows, classic catalogue, blockbuster movies and an exciting slate of kids content. Stan can be watched in up to full HD on your TV or favourite device, including tablets and smartphones. Stan is a joint venture between Nine Entertainment Co. and Fairfax Media.

For more information visit www.stan.com.au
*Title image from Wolf Creek 2. Used with permission.