Lexi Webster
Australians can access free-to-air TV through Freeview, which offers over 30 channels including ABC, SBS, 7, 9, and 10. Freeview can be accessed via an aerial connection and the internet, and also offers a mini guide and a mobile app to help users discover and plan their viewing. In areas not covered by terrestrial transmissions, the free-to-view VAST satellite platform provides digital channels. The availability of commercial channels depends on location and station ownership, with regional stations in some areas being owned and operated by network affiliates rather than the network itself.
Is TV free in Australia?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Free-to-air TV | Available via Freeview Australia |
| Freeview Australia | Provides access to 30+ channels |
| Channels | ABC, SBS, 7, 9, 10, ICTV, Racing.com, TVSN, 9Rush |
| Requirements | Aerial, internet connection |
| Additional features | Mini guide, Freeview App |
| Areas without terrestrial transmissions | Free-to-view VAST satellite platform |
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What You'll Learn
Freeview Australia
To access Freeview, users need a Freeview-certified TV, an aerial, and an active broadband connection. Freeview also certifies set-top boxes and personal video recorders (PVRs) that meet its standards, ensuring they are capable of receiving free-to-air digital television broadcasts in standard or high definition.
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Free-to-air channels
Freeview provides a mini guide that automatically loads on your TV when you turn it on, making it easy to browse and discover new programs. The service is available on all free-to-air TV channels, including ABC, SBS, 7, 9, and 10. These channels offer a range of content, from favourite TV shows to live sports and special events.
In addition to the major networks, there are also community-based broadcasters available on digital television in metropolitan cities. These channels may be limited to specific areas, such as ICTV, which is available via terrestrial television in Alice Springs and Broome and via VAST in other regions.
It's worth noting that the availability of commercial channels depends on your location and station ownership. Regional areas may have different affiliations and programming compared to metropolitan capitals like Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. However, in areas not covered by terrestrial transmissions, free-to-view satellite platforms like VAST provide access to digital channels.
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Digital terrestrial television
DTT is available to almost all Australian households and free-to-air services reach 99% of the population. Commercial television broadcasters offer up to 15 digital TV channels, including the primary channels in high definition. The channels available depend on location and station ownership. For example, ICTV is available via terrestrial television in Alice Springs and Broome, and via VAST in other areas.
The future of DTT looks bright, with Free TV Australia partnering with Broadcast Australia and TX Australia to undertake trials of the next generation of digital television broadcast technology. This new technology, known as DVB T2, may include 4K or UHD broadcasts, enabling even better picture quality and more immersive sound.
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Commercial channels
Television in Australia is provided by a mix of public, commercial, and subscription services. The country has a number of free-to-air channels, including ABC, SBS, Seven Network, Nine Network, and Network 10. These channels are available through a service called Freeview, which offers a free-to-air TV guide and on-demand content.
The availability of commercial channels in regional areas like Canberra, Hobart, and Darwin is dependent on network affiliates. These affiliates operate the stations and may have different programming or variations in channel offerings. In areas without terrestrial transmission coverage, viewers can access the commercial channels through the free-to-view VAST satellite platform. This platform provides all the standard free-to-air channels, ensuring that those in remote locations can still watch television.
The commercial channels in Australia provide a range of programming, including news, current affairs, drama, documentaries, and entertainment. They are a significant part of the country's television landscape, offering a mix of local and international content to viewers across the nation.
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Freeview app
Freeview FV is an app that allows you to watch live TV on the go on your mobile device. It is available on the Amazon Appstore, Apple Store, and for Android devices. The app is free and provides access to 19 free-to-air channels, including ABC, SBS, Seven, Channel 9, 10, 10 Bold, and ABC KIDS.
The Freeview FV app offers live streaming, catch-up content, and a free-to-air TV guide. You can browse and search all free-to-air programs, set reminders, and save your favourite shows. It also includes recommendations and allows you to change your location when you're away from home. The app is designed to provide more choice and convenience, enabling you to enjoy TV anywhere.
The Freeview FV app has received recognition, winning awards such as the International Grand Prix Award and the Best TV/Video Service Update or Launch category at the 2017 International Connie Awards. It also won Gold at the 2017 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards.
While the Freeview FV app offers a convenient way to watch live TV on mobile devices, some users have noted issues with the lack of closed captions, which is important for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community in Australia. Additionally, there have been reports of reminder functions not working consistently. Despite these shortcomings, the Freeview FV app is generally well-regarded, providing a useful companion to the traditional TV viewing experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, there are free-to-air TV channels in Australia.
There are over 30 free-to-air channels in Australia, including ABC, SBS, 7, 9, and 10.
Yes, you need to connect your TV to an aerial and the internet to access the free-to-air channels.
Yes, the commercial channels available to viewers depend on location and station ownership. For example, in some areas, channels are provided by the free-to-view VAST satellite platform.
No, the free-to-air channels are completely free to access, although some platforms may incur a transmission patent licensing tax included in the broadcaster cost.
