Alexis Bonte
Group Chief Executive Officer, President & Interim EVP of BA MENA/APAC

Good morning, and welcome to the Stillfront Q4 Presentation. I am Alexis Bonte, the CEO of Stillfront. I’m joined today by our CFO, Emily Villatte, who joined us in December. I would like also to take the opportunity to thank Tim Holland for his work as interim CFO during 2025.

As we summarize the first quarter of 2025, I am pleased to report that Stillfront is delivering margin expansion despite revenue decline. We successfully expanded our adjusted EBITDAC margin to 27%, up from 25% in Q4 last year despite an organic revenue decline of 9%. This follows our cost savings efforts during the year, disciplined deployment of UAC alongside the continued rollout of our direct-to-consumer channel.

Looking at our business areas. In Europe, we delivered a big franchise new game launch with early positive signs, and we divested our noncore narrative portfolio, which has been impacting our organic growth. In North America, the continued revenue decline reflects a deliberate strategy of prioritizing cash flow and efficiency over short-term volume. MENA and APAC delivered strong results with 7% organic growth.

Now let’s dive into the details. So first, turning to Europe. Net revenue in BA Europe landed at SEK 622 million for the quarter. That represents an organic decline of 6%. The revenue performance in Europe has been heavily impacted by the narrative games portfolio. And in late December, we concluded the divestment of the narrative franchise for a

During a heated Senate hearing Tuesday on Netflix’s proposed deal with Warner Bros. Entertainment, Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., pressed the streaming platform’s CEO on a recent statistic from a conservative women’s policy organization arguing nearly half of Netflix’s content for kids “promotes transgender ideology.” 

Hawley cited his own experience as a parent of young kids, pointing out he does not let them “watch anything” on Netflix unless he previews it first because he does not “have confidence of what is on [Netflix’s] platform,” the GOP senator told Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos.

But Sarandos clapped back at Halwey’s claim, arguing that data point that “almost half” of Netflix’s children’s programming promotes trangenderism was “inaccurate.”

NETFLIX SET TO AIR TRANSGENDER COAL MINER FILM ‘QUEEN OF COAL’ IN DECEMBER

“Senator, Netflix has no political agenda of any kind,” Sarados told the GOP senator Tuesday.

Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos provides testimony to U.S. Senators on Capitol Hill Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2025. (ROBERTO SCHMIDT / AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)

“Well, then why is your children’s programming so full of this highly sexualized, highly controversial – highly controversial – agenda? I don’t understand it. It seems strange to me,” Hawley shot back before Srandos could finish. 

“Respectfully, sir, it’s because it’s inaccurate. We have millions of hours of children’s programming. I –,” the Netflix CEO continued saying before the GOP senator cut him off again. 

“You don’t have a trans – you don’t feature trans characters, trans storylines, trans themes? It’s not in your programming?” Hawley shot back.

“I’m saying we feature a wide variety of stories and programs that meet a wide variety of people’s tastes,” Sarandos clarified.

FORMER KENTUCKY AG DANIEL CAMERON TARGETS NETFLIX OVER TRANSGENDER CONTENT FOR KIDS, NEW JERSEY TAX BREAKS

But Hawley kept drilling in that nearly half of Netflix’s content for kids promotes transgender ideology, a statistic first shared by the conservative women’s public policy group known as Concerned Women for America (CWA).

CWA released a report in December, claiming they found that 41% of G-rated series on Netflix and 41% of TV-Y7 rated shows on Netflix contain content that can be construed as pro-LGBTQ+.

Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos seen shaking hands with Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., at a Tuesday hearing on Capitol Hill amid the streaming platform’s attempt to buy out Warner Bros. (Graeme Sloan/Bloomberg via Getty Images / Getty Images)

In defense of Hawley’s accusations, Sarandos highlighted that the platform has built out “state-of-the-art tools” for parents to manage their video streaming choices for their children. He added that folks at Netflix were parents too, and shared the “same concerns about raising kids” that Hawley has.

The research released by CWA on Netflix’s pro-trans content came just a few days after Netflix announced an agreement to acquire Warner Bros. film and television studios, as well as HBO and HBO Max, which would make the streaming platform one of the most dominant in the world. 

President Donald Trump has raised antitrust concerns over the proposed Netflix takeover of Warner Bros.  (Dado Ruvic/Illustration/Reuters / Reuters)

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While the deal has been announced, it still must undergo regulatory scrutiny. Other companies have also submitted rival offers aimed at undercutting Netflix’s ambitions.

“You want the United States government to allow you to become one of the largest – if not the largest – streaming monopolist in the world,” Hawley highlighted to Sarandos during the Tuesday hearing. “I think we ought to be concerned about what content you’re promoting.”

In 2026, Australia’s PR landscape is more dynamic than ever. With digital transformation accelerating, crisis management in high demand amid economic shifts, and brands prioritizing authentic storytelling across social, media, and influencer channels, the right PR agency can skyrocket visibility, reputation, and ROI. From Sydney’s powerhouse networks to Melbourne’s creative hubs and Brisbane’s emerging innovators, top firms blend traditional media relations with digital PR, SEO-integrated strategies, and data-driven campaigns.

This comprehensive review ranks the 20 best PR agencies in Australia for 2026, based on recent industry rankings (Clutch.co February 2026, PRovoke Media Asia-Pacific 2025 insights extended, The Ardor, DesignRush, Goodfirms, and client feedback). Factors include client results, awards, innovation in digital/hybrid PR, sector expertise (corporate, consumer, tech, fashion/lifestyle, crisis), and national reach. Whether you’re a startup seeking buzz or a corporate needing reputation protection, these agencies lead the pack.

1. Edelman Australia – Best Overall & Global Powerhouse

Edelman Australia tops many 2026 lists for its unmatched scale and expertise. Part of the global Edelman network, it excels in corporate communications, crisis management, public affairs, and integrated campaigns. With offices in Sydney, Melbourne, and beyond, Edelman handles high-profile clients across tech, finance, and government. Strengths: Data-driven insights via Trust Barometer, strong media relationships, and award-winning work in sustainability and issues management.

Pros: Global resources, proven crisis handling, broad sector coverage. Cons: Higher fees for larger enterprises. Best for: Multinational brands and complex reputation challenges.

2. Ogilvy Australia – Creative Excellence & Integrated PR

Ogilvy stands out for blending PR with advertising and digital creativity. Recognized in PRovoke’s best agencies, it delivers storytelling that cuts through noise, with expertise in consumer brands, health, and tech. Sydney and Melbourne bases ensure national coverage.

Pros: Award-winning creative campaigns, strong influencer integration. Cons: More advertising-focused than pure PR. Best for: Brands wanting PR that feels like bold marketing.

3. Burson (Burson Australia) – Strategic Depth & Merger Strength

Post-merger evolution makes Burson a 2026 leader in strategic communications, public affairs, and corporate PR. Excellent in B2B, government relations, and crisis.

Pros: Deep policy expertise, robust analytics. Cons: Less boutique feel. Best for: Corporate and public sector clients.

4. Herd MSL – Consumer & Lifestyle Specialist

Herd MSL shines in consumer, lifestyle, and brand storytelling, with creative campaigns that drive earned media and social buzz.

Pros: Strong influencer and experiential focus. Cons: More niche in consumer sectors. Best for: Fashion, beauty, FMCG brands.

5. ICON Agency – Multi-City Award-Winner

With offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Canberra, ICON is one of Australia’s most awarded PR firms. It excels in integrated PR, digital, and creative services across corporate, government, and consumer.

Pros: National footprint, award haul. Cons: Broad services may dilute pure PR focus. Best for: Brands needing cross-channel campaigns.

6. Thrive PR + Communications – Boutique Powerhouse

Family-owned and female-led, Thrive dominates in Sydney (with ANZ reach) for corporate, tech, finance, and crisis PR. Over 20 years of results-driven work.

Pros: Personalized service, crisis expertise. Cons: Smaller scale. Best for: Mid-sized businesses seeking high-touch PR.

7. Berkeley Communications Group – Dynamic & Reputation-Focused

Frequently ranked high on Clutch.co, Berkeley excels in media relations, brand reputation, and public affairs in Sydney.

Pros: Strong earned media results. Cons: Primarily Sydney-centric. Best for: Tech and professional services.

8. Sling & Stone – Digital PR Leader

Named ANZ PR Agency of the Year in recent awards, Sling & Stone blends digital PR, influencer, and content for modern brands.

Pros: Innovative digital strategies. Cons: Emerging vs. legacy giants. Best for: Tech startups and e-commerce.

9. AMPR Group – Impactful & Results-Driven

Sydney and Melbourne-based, AMPR delivers measurable campaigns in fashion, retail, beauty, and hospitality.

Pros: Creative, culture-aligned work. Cons: Sector-specific strengths. Best for: Lifestyle and consumer brands.

10. Reconnect PR – Rising Star on Clutch & Manifest

Surry Hills-based, Reconnect earns top reviews for strategic PR, media training, and brand storytelling.

Pros: High client satisfaction scores. Cons: Boutique size. Best for: SMEs and startups.

11. Eleven – Creative & Strategic

Part of PRovoke’s best, Eleven focuses on innovative campaigns across consumer and corporate.

Pros: Fresh ideas, strong execution. Cons: Competitive field. Best for: Disruptive brands.

12. History Will Be Kind – Boutique Innovator

Noted for thoughtful, narrative-driven PR in PRovoke rankings.

Pros: Deep storytelling. Cons: Niche appeal. Best for: Purpose-driven organizations.

13. Bench PR – Emerging Excellence

Recognized in Asia-Pacific best lists for agile, effective PR.

Pros: Nimble and responsive. Cons: Newer player. Best for: Fast-growing companies.

14. Adoni Media – Media Training & PR

Brisbane/Spring Hill focus, strong in public relations and media training.

Pros: Crisis and spokesperson prep. Cons: Regional emphasis. Best for: Executives and public figures.

15. The Atticism PR and Brand – Boutique Specialist

High ratings on Manifest for brand-focused PR.

Pros: Personalized, creative. Cons: Smaller team. Best for: Lifestyle and professional services.

16. Pure Public Relations – Results-Guaranteed

Sydney-based, guarantees outcomes for SMEs and NFPs.

Pros: Performance-based. Cons: Focused on smaller clients. Best for: Budget-conscious brands.

17. Sefiani – Strategic & Sustainability-Focused

Award-winning Sydney firm for corporate, investor relations, and sustainability PR.

Pros: Issues management strength. Cons: B2B lean. Best for: Corporate reputation.

18. Media Key – Melbourne Standout

Goodfirms-listed for dynamic publicity in arts, entertainment, and lifestyle.

Pros: Creative projects. Cons: Sector-specific. Best for: Entertainment brands.

19. Think HQ – Public Affairs Expert

Melbourne-based, excels in government relations and public affairs.

Pros: Policy influence. Cons: Less consumer-focused. Best for: Advocacy and public sector.

20. PRLab – International Reach with Local Expertise

Global network with strong Australian presence for tech and startup PR.

Pros: Cross-border capabilities. Cons: More digital-heavy. Best for: Tech and innovation sectors.

Key Trends Shaping PR in Australia 2026

• Digital Integration → Top agencies merge PR with SEO, social, and influencer for amplified reach.
• Crisis & Trust → Economic uncertainty boosts demand for reputation management.
• Sustainability & Purpose → Brands prioritize authentic ESG storytelling.
• Measurement → ROI via media value, sentiment analysis, and conversions.
• Regional Strength → Sydney leads in corporate, Melbourne in creative/lifestyle, Brisbane in emerging consumer.

How to Choose the Right PR Agency in 2026

• Define goals (brand awareness, crisis, launches?).
• Check portfolios and case studies.
• Prioritize Tier-1 regulators and ethics.
• Request references and metrics.
• Start with a pilot or retainer.
• Budget: Boutique $5k–$15k/month; global $20k+.

Australia’s PR scene offers options for every need—from global giants like Edelman to agile boutiques like Thrive. Partner with one of these top 20 to elevate your brand in 2026’s competitive market.

Endless exits Warrington-based group with 80 stores

An investment team led by Dragons’ Den star Peter Jones has bought golf retail giant American Golf from private equity investor Endless LLP.

Warrington-based American Golf is the UK and Ireland’s biggest golf retailer, turning over £135m and with more than 80 stores as well as an online offering. The business, which employs more than 1,000 people, was bought by Endless in 2018.

Now entrepreneur and keen golfer Peter Jones – best known for his long stint on BBC show Dragons’ Den and on its US equivalent Shark Tank – has taken control in what bosses say will mark an “exciting new chapter” for the sporting goods chain.

Mr Jones, who was made a CBE in 2009, said: “Golf has always been a personal passion of mine, so acquiring American Golf feels especially meaningful. It’s a brand that truly understands golfers — from beginners to seasoned players — and has played an important role in the UK golf community for decades.”

Nigel Oddy, CEO of American Golf, said: “Joining forces with Peter Jones and his Investment Group marks an exciting new chapter for American Golf. It will enable us to continue to accelerate our growth strategy, and further our ambition of becoming the ultimate one-stop destination for everything a golfer requires. At the same time I would like to thank Endless for their support, custodianship and investment over the past eight years.”

David Isaacs, managing director at Endless, said: “We are incredibly proud of American Golf’s evolution over the past eight years and to see it go from strength to strength with a clear trajectory for future growth.”

American Golf and Endless were advised by Alvarez & Marsal (corporate finance), Addleshaw Goddard (legal) and KPMG (tax). Peter Jones and his investment group were advised by Reed Smith (legal) and Grant Thornton (financial and tax).

In 2026, SEO in Australia is evolving fast with AI-driven search (like Google’s SGE and voice/AEO), zero-click results, E-E-A-T emphasis, and core web vitals as ranking factors. Businesses face tougher competition for organic traffic, making expert agencies essential for sustainable growth. From Sydney’s high-volume markets to Melbourne’s creative scenes and Brisbane’s emerging tech hubs, top SEO firms deliver technical audits, content strategies, link building, local SEO, and performance tracking.

This 2026 review ranks the 20 best SEO companies in Australia, drawn from February 2026 data on Clutch.co, Semrush Agency Partners, GoodFirms, DesignRush, agency blogs, and client feedback. Criteria include verified reviews, case studies, innovation (e.g., AI tools, AEO readiness), results (traffic/lead growth), sector expertise (e-commerce, SaaS, local services), and national coverage. Whether you’re a startup chasing leads or an enterprise optimizing for scale, these agencies stand out.

1. Digital Nomads HQ – Best Overall Australian SEO Agency

Brisbane-based Digital Nomads HQ tops many 2026 lists (including their own updated rankings and Clutch) for holistic, results-focused SEO. They excel in technical SEO, content marketing, and local/national strategies for e-commerce and service businesses.

Key strengths: Transparent reporting, strong keyword research, and proven traffic increases. Pros: High client satisfaction (60+ Clutch reviews), affordable for mid-sized firms. Cons: Primarily Brisbane focus but serves nationwide. Best for: Businesses wanting measurable ROI without fluff.

2. StudioHawk – Top Melbourne SEO Specialist

StudioHawk dominates Melbourne rankings and appears in multiple top lists for specialized organic search. Founded in 2015, they focus on in-depth audits, content clusters, and technical optimizations for competitive industries.

Pros: Ethical white-hat approach, strong E-E-A-T building. Cons: Premium pricing. Best for: Brands in competitive niches needing deep strategy.

3. Supple Digital – Award-Winning Full-Service Leader

Melbourne’s Supple consistently ranks high on Clutch and other directories for integrated SEO with web dev, paid media, and e-commerce. Award-winning campaigns drive sustained rankings.

Pros: Multi-channel expertise, excellent for Shopify/WordPress sites. Cons: Broader services may increase costs. Best for: E-commerce and digital-first brands.

4. Clearwater Agency – High-Impact Technical SEO

Frequently listed on Clutch’s top Australia SEO firms, Clearwater (Cremorne) specializes in technical audits, site migrations, and performance SEO for B2B and SaaS.

Pros: Data-driven, strong core web vitals focus. Cons: More technical than creative content. Best for: Sites needing major optimizations.

5. SIXGUN – Performance & Brand Visibility Expert

Richmond-based SIXGUN earns high Clutch ratings for helping ambitious brands get found via SEO, content, and digital PR.

Pros: Creative yet results-oriented, great for brand storytelling. Cons: Selective client base. Best for: Premium brands and SaaS.

6. Online Marketing Gurus (OMG) – Scalable Growth Powerhouse

Sydney’s OMG appears in many 2026 guides for full-stack SEO, including local and enterprise-level scaling.

Pros: Proven in competitive markets, strong link-building. Cons: Higher volume focus. Best for: Sydney businesses and national campaigns.

7. Safari Digital – Strategic & Results-Driven

Often ranked for ethical, long-term SEO with expertise in content and technical work.

Pros: Transparent processes, good for mid-market. Cons: Less flashy marketing. Best for: Sustainable organic growth.

8. Prosperity Media – SaaS & Tech Specialist

Sydney agency highlighted in SaaS-focused 2026 lists for technical depth and authority building.

Pros: Content scaling, backlink strategies. Cons: Niche in tech/SaaS. Best for: Software companies.

9. Dilate Digital – Perth’s Leading SEO Agency

Perth standout in regional rankings, offering comprehensive SEO for local and national clients.

Pros: Strong West Coast coverage, personalized service. Cons: Regional emphasis. Best for: WA-based businesses.

10. High Voltage SEO – Clutch Leader

Frequently tops Clutch Australia SEO lists for specialized services and client results.

Pros: Focused expertise, high ratings. Cons: Boutique scale. Best for: Targeted campaigns.

11. Salt & Fuessel – Emerging Creative Force

Appears in Clutch top rankings for innovative SEO approaches.

Pros: Fresh strategies, good reviews. Cons: Newer in some lists. Best for: Creative industries.

12. Soup Agency – Boutique Excellence

Clutch-featured for agile, effective SEO.

Pros: Nimble team, strong execution. Cons: Smaller footprint. Best for: Startups and SMEs.

13. Pure Bold – Bold Results in SEO

Noted in top Australia lists for performance-driven tactics.

Pros: Measurable gains. Cons: Competitive niche. Best for: Lead-gen focused sites.

14. Engine Scout – Local & National Hybrid

Strong in local SEO with national reach.

Pros: Google Business Profile mastery. Cons: More local lean. Best for: Service-based businesses.

15. Gorilla 360 – Newcastle & Beyond

Regional leader expanding nationally.

Pros: Full digital integration. Cons: Emerging in major cities. Best for: Regional brands scaling up.

16. Excitemedia – Brisbane Specialist

Brisbane-focused with strong results in local SEO.

Pros: Community ties, effective campaigns. Cons: Primarily QLD. Best for: Brisbane enterprises.

17. Digital Hitmen – Perth Small Agency Star

Semrush-awarded for small agency excellence.

Pros: Versatile services. Cons: Boutique size. Best for: Perth SMBs.

18. Impressive Digital – Content & SEO Blend

Known for content strategies driving rankings.

Pros: High-quality assets. Cons: Content-heavy. Best for: Blog/content sites.

19. Margin Media – Brisbane Award-Winner

Data-led approach in organic growth.

Pros: Strategic depth. Cons: Brisbane-centric. Best for: Award-seeking clients.

20. Talons Marketing – Practical SaaS & E-commerce SEO

Melbourne agency praised for results in Shopify and SaaS.

Pros: Intent-focused, clear execution. Cons: Niche strengths. Best for: E-commerce growth.

2026 SEO Trends in Australia

• AI & AEO → Agencies optimize for generative answers and voice search.
• Core Updates → Focus on quality content and user experience.
• Local SEO Boom → Google Business and reviews critical.
• Measurement → Tools like GA4, Search Console for ROI proof.
• Sustainability → Ethical practices over black-hat risks.

Choosing the Best SEO Company in Australia 2026

• Align with goals (local vs. national, e-commerce vs. SaaS).
• Review portfolios, case studies, and verified reviews (Clutch, Google).
• Ask for audits and transparent pricing ($2k–$15k+/month).
• Prioritize white-hat, long-term partners.
• Start with a trial or audit.

Australia’s SEO scene thrives with these agencies leading the charge—from technical wizards to content powerhouses. Partner wisely for 2026 dominance in organic search.