Australia Television Market: A Dynamic Shift from Broadcast to Broadband

Australia television market is undergoing a transformative shift. In 2024, the industry was valued at approximately USD 11.11 billion, and it’s expected to soar to around USD 26.79 billion by 2033, growing at a robust CAGR of 9.20%. Powered by widespread broadband access, rising smart TV ownership, and streaming adoption, Australia’s TV ecosystem is reinventing itself at every level.

What’s Fueling the Television Boom?

1. Broadband Revolution and NBN Upgrades

Australia’s high-speed internet infrastructure, most notably the National Broadband Network (NBN), is central to this sector’s growth. Upgrades targeting full fiber-to-the-premises for 1.5 million homes and average fixed-line speeds exceeding 54 Mbps are enabling seamless streaming and high-definition broadcasting.

2. Smart TV Saturation

Smart TVs now grace nearly 76% of Australian households—up from 71% the previous year. With built-in access to top streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+, plus features like voice control and 4K resolution, they’re becoming the default screen for entertainment.

3. Boom in OTT and Streaming Consumption

The rise in streaming services has reshaped viewing habits. Australians are gravitating toward on-demand platforms over scheduled TV, driven by convenience, device flexibility, and rich content libraries.

Learn More – Australia Television Market Report

Real-World Trends and Consumer Behavior

• Streaming Supremacy:

Subscription-based and ad-supported video-on-demand platforms are leading viewer engagement, surpassing traditional TV in both preference and growth.

• Local Production Investment:

Local content spending is rising. In 2023, production companies invested over USD 1 billion in Australian-scripted series, signaling strong demand for culturally resonant programming.

• Free-to-Air Resilience Amid Change:

Despite streaming’s dominance, free-to-air news bulletins saw a resurgence, particularly in early 2025—driven by major news events and trust in traditional media. Audiences for 7NEWS and 9News streamed via catch-up platforms like 7plus and 9Now rose nearly 50%.

Challenges Facing Traditional Broadcast

• Ad Revenue Pressure:

Commercial free-to-air networks are under strain. In 2024, traditional TV ad revenue declined by 8.1%, while ad-supported BVOD platforms—like 7plus and 9Now—grew by 12.7%.

• Large Displays, Luxury Market Divide:

Even amid cost-of-living concerns, demand persists for high-end premium TVs—such as transparent or ultra-large LED models—fueling a “two-speed” consumer market.

• Industry Instability and Floaters:

Network 10 faces mounting turmoil, with canceled programs, dwindling ratings, and ad challenges suggesting the number of commercial broadcasters may shrink significantly by decade's end.

The Road Ahead: TV’s Next Chapter

• Streaming Takes the Crown:

As demand for on-demand and mobile-first content continues, streaming platforms—both global and local—will reshape media consumption patterns.

• Smart TVs as Hub:

Homes will increasingly rely on smart TVs as central entertainment hubs, blending live, on-demand, interactive, and voice-assisted experiences seamlessly.

• Content Remains King:

Investment in compelling Australian content will be vital for viewer retention—particularly for local platforms competing against global giants.

• Hybrid Viewing Habits:

Traditional broadcast and streaming are blending—as seen in online news bulletins—highlighting that live, communal viewing still holds power during major events.

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Why This Matters—Today and Tomorrow

As Australia embraces the digital age, its television industry stands at the forefront of rapid transformation. From broadband expansion to streaming dominance, TV is evolving into a versatile, personalized medium—bridging tradition with innovation to deliver the future of entertainment.

About IMARC Group

IMARC Group is a global market research leader offering robust forecasts and strategic insights across emerging sectors. Their Australia Television Market report enables businesses, creators, and investors to anticipate trends and adapt for tomorrow’s media landscape.