DISCOVERY marks 25 years in Australia

In 2020, Discovery Inc., the leader in real-life entertainment, is marking 25 years in Australia, evolving from a single pay-TV channel in 1995, to a portfolio of globally renowned brands covering factual, lifestyle, sports and entertainment content across several platforms. Today, the anniversary welcomes a refreshed brand for the flagship Discovery Channel, which since launch, has attracted strong audiences and remains the leading factual channel on Foxtel

Alongside broadcasting captivating global stories, Discovery Australia continues to be committed to investing significantly in Australian productions, with more than 120 hours of local content commissioned and produced in 2019. The hugely successful flagship series’ Aussie Gold Hunters and Outback Opal Hunters continue to be popular with audiences, with new series premieres securing the #1 and #2 Factual programs on Foxtel this year-to-date for two consecutive years. Powered by Discovery’s global network, both series’ air in more than 100 countries and territories, including the US.

Rebecca Kent, General Manager, Discovery Australia, New Zealand & Pacific Islands, said:

“Since 1995, Discovery Channel has entertained and inspired millions of Australians, curious about the world around us. Many have grown up with global hits like Deadliest Catch, Shark Week and Gold Rush, as well as local favourites including Abalone Wars, Railroad Australia and the more recent Aussie Gold Hunters. As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we’re excited to launch an updated look for the channel, which marks the legacy of our brand while refreshing it for the future.

“Australian stories are an increasingly important part of our strategy. We’re proud that these local productions are not only delivering success domestically, but also provide a valuable avenue for homegrown stories and creatives to reach audiences worldwide.”

Discovery Australia’s portfolio includes nine premium brands across Foxtel and Fetch, golf streaming service GOLFTV and newly launched channel 9Rush, a partnership with Nine Entertainment Co, which marked Discovery’s most significant move in the free-to-air market.

Kent added:

“In our 25^th year, more Australians are engaging with Discovery’s content, with our year-to-date commercial share currently the highest in our history. As we look ahead, our portfolio growth and diversification across channels and platforms will continue to reflect audiences’ growing passion for real-life entertainment, and appetite to access this content at their convenience.”