HOW well children's television production in Australia responds to the challenges of the digital era will indicate how healthy the country's film and television industry is overall, according to a University of the Sunshine Coast academic.

Lecturer in Communications Dr Anna Potter is writing a book about her research into the creative, commercial and cultural factors involved in the production of children's television shows.

Dr Potter said the book, planned for publication next year, would discuss the growing global popularity of Australian children's shows and the potential impact of productions made collaboratively with international partners.

While this global popularity was positive, the continued production of quality, locally produced programs depended on safeguarding the current quota of Australian shows on free-to-air commercial networks.

"We can look at Australian children's television production as the 'canary in the coal mine' of the Australian television and film production industry," she said.

"As soon as quotas for quality, Australian, independently produced children's television shows start to decrease on the commercial networks, the health of the local film and TV production industry is compromised.

"Therefore, it is more important than ever for the industry to take note of trends, including how technology has changed the way children watch television and the popularity of dedicated children's channels."