Universal International Studios has announced that it is closing local production company, Matchbox Pictures.
After 18 years of defining high-end Australian drama, the prolific production house ceases operations after an extensive evaluation by its parent company.
As reported by IF, NBCU confirmed the decision to shutter the company, citing evolving strategic priorities and a change in its operating model for the region.
“Universal International Studios maintains its commitment to Australia, but as strategic priorities shift the studio is evolving its operating model in the region,” a statement reads.
“Moving forward the company will evaluate production opportunities and engage with local producers and talent on a case-by-case basis as new projects emerge.”
The closure also extends to Tony Ayres Productions (TAP), the standalone company that Tony Ayres launched in 2018 with Universal’s backing. Ayres, a titan of the local industry, reportedly shifts his focus back to writing following the restructure which was quietly announced today at the Netflix ‘What’s Next’ in 2026 Event.
Managing director Alastair McKinnon expressed immense pride in the team’s achievements and the quality of work produced since the company’s inception.
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Founded in 2008 by industry heavyweights Ayres, Penny Chapman, Helen Bowden, Michael McMahon, and Helen Pankhurst, Matchbox Pictures became a global success story. In 2011, NBCUniversal International took a majority stake in the company: its first-ever investment in a production house outside the UK.
The global giant took full ownership in 2014.
Across 18 years, the company produced over 55 projects for every Australian network and numerous international streaming platforms. From the cultural phenomenon of The Slap to the International Emmy-winning Safe Harbour, Matchbox proved that Australian stories command a global audience.
The news comes while the company remains at the top of its game.
The comedy Dog Park currently airs on the ABC, while the TAP-produced series The Survivors recently dominated Netflix.
As the most-watched local series of 2025, it racked up over 28 million views.
Beyond the hits, Matchbox served as a vital incubator for Australian executive talent like Chris Oliver-Taylor, Que Minh Luu, and Kylie Washington.
From Mediaweek