Rupurt Murdoch's News Limited has launched Foxtix, a new ticketing industry company in Australia in an attempt to take market share in tightly controlled event industry. THE $150 million duopoly run by Ticketek and Ticketmaster in Australia is set for a shake-up, writes the Australian.

The move is significant as News (publisher of The Australian) pushes to develop transaction revenue from its media websites. It also recognises the fast growth of News's pub and indy ticketing agency Moshtix since it was acquired three years ago.

News Limited chairman and chief executive John Hartigan said the national ticketing service would mark "an aggressive entry into mainstream major event ticketing".

"This new venture will provide ticket buyers, venues and event promoters with a more powerful option than they are getting now and will open up new marketing opportunities for major events across News Limited's network of newspapers and websites," Mr Hartigan told the paper.

Foxtix is making a strong move on the Australian Grand Prix, held by Ticketek, which is up for tender and Foxtix has lodged a bid.

Foxtix is planning to use it extensive media holdings "to provide promoters and venue managers a wide marketing reach; and provide News Limited readers with special offers and benefits", they said.

"Over the last seven years, through our involvement with Moshtix, we have witnessed many situations where the industry and consumers are being poorly served. When you compare the Australian ticket market to other global markets, we are a long way behind when it comes to technology and service," he said.