Finding free-to-air TV on smart TVs and streaming devices is set to get easier, with the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) releasing new guidelines under the country’s TV prominence framework.
Designed to keep free-to-air services like ABC, SBS, Seven, Nine, and 10 front and centre, the rules ensure their BVOD apps—ABC iview, SBS On Demand, 7plus, 9Now, and 10 Play—are easy to access on smart TVs and similar devices.
The framework applies to any device manufactured and supplied from 10 January 2026, with the new guidelines outlining which devices are covered and what manufacturers must do to comply.
The guidelines follow industry consultation and mark a key step in implementing the prominence framework, introduced in July 2024 as part of Australia’s updated media laws.
With the guidelines now in place, ACMA will turn its focus to enforcement, with further consultation and research planned throughout 2025.
By the time the framework takes effect in 2026, finding live and catch-up free-to-air TV should be much simpler—no more digging through menus to reach the channels Australians have relied on for decades.
You can read more about the guidelines on ACMA’s website HERE.
What about converting to DVB-T2? The 209-230 MHz Frequency Range must get used for DAB!
I’ll just move the apps around to suit my needs. I’m guessing that’s what most people will do.