Netflix transforms Australian media consumption through recommendations

This month marks ten years since Netflix launched in Australia, significantly changing how people consume media. A 2024 report shows Australians aged 16-38 now spend twice as much time on subscription streaming services compared to free-to-air TV. Netflix's success is largely due to its advanced recommender system, which uses extensive user data to suggest content. Unlike traditional broadcasters, Netflix collects detailed data directly from users, allowing for more personalized viewing experiences. The rise of streaming has raised concerns about privacy and data transparency. While traditional TV relied on anonymized data, streaming platforms like Netflix use granular data to influence content and recommendations, prompting questions about user control over their viewing habits.