OzTAM has struck a strategic partnership with Fetch TV to incorporate its Return Path Data (RPD) into a big data proof-of-concept project that's looking to devise how to deliver more precise audience measurement insights for VOZ.

This initiative also aims to explore how to enhance measurement granularity when combined with representative panel data.

Fetch TV, a subscription streaming service and universal aggregator of various broadcast channels and services, will contribute anonymous, aggregated RPD from approximately 700,000 set-top box households. This data captures second-by-second viewing activity, offering detailed insights into content consumption across both broadcast and digital platforms.

The proof-of-concept project, announced in April 2025, is currently underway. It utilises data from existing partners Samba TV and Nexxen, alongside OzTAM's internal datasets. Phase One of the project focuses on identifying opportunities and benefits of integrating big data with OzTAM's existing data. Phase Two will involve industry leaders in designing a roadmap for combining new data sources with OzTAM's established panel data.

Samba TV and Nexxen contribute Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) data from over 2.2 million connected TV sets across Australia. OzTAM and Regional TAM's panel comprises 8,300 homes and over 5,000 streaming TV meters. Additionally, OzTAM's Video Player Measurement (VPM) service measures 16 million connected devices monthly.

The integration of big data in TV measurement combines RPD from set-top boxes and ACR data from smart TVs.

Karen Halligan, CEO of OzTAM, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "The inclusion of Fetch TV further strengthens our proof-of-concept and moves us closer to understanding the impact of incorporating big data sources into VOZ Total TV currency."

Fetch TV, founded in Sydney in 2008, is an Australian technology company offering an entertainment platform-as-a-service. The company aims to reach 3 million Australians by 2030 and is supported by major shareholders, including Telstra.

"At Fetch TV, we are committed to delivering a world-class entertainment experience to consumers. With our scale and presence in around 700,000 Australian homes and universal content viewed on our platform, this collaboration allows us to contribute to initiatives that enhance the accuracy and consistency of screen measurement across Australia," Dominic Arena, CEO of Fetch TV, said.

"By aligning with OzTAM’s efforts, we are doing our part to provide the Australian media industry with a more accurate and comprehensive view of how people are watching TV, reinforcing our position as a valuable partner in the evolving media landscape."