2007 was a watershed year for SBS television with the largest-ever ratings share of people sixteen plus for the network (excluding special events) at six per cent*, up seven per cent from 5.6 per cent in 2006.
This continues strong audience share growth for SBS, with audience figures up from 5.1 per cent since 2003, and can be directly attributed to an increased focus on delivering quality content for viewers from both Australia and overseas.
‘While ratings figures are only one indicator of success, it is pleasing to see SBS consistently build its audience share over the last four years,’ Managing Director Shaun Brown said.
‘The growth in audience share demonstrates that SBS is screening some of the most compelling content on local television including outstanding Australian content.
‘We couple that with award winning dramas and documentaries sourced from the best overseas markets and fantastic entertainment programs to give Australian audiences something different and distinctive.
‘This tops off a stellar year for SBS. With three Walkley Awards for news and current affairs, eight IF awards for film, four Logies and 14 AFI awards including Best Television Comedy Series and Best Light Entertainment Series, both audiences and the industry are taking a fresh look at SBS and what we do, and we expect 2008 to be even better.’
SBS has already had a good start to 2008 with strong viewing figures for hard-hitting Australian cop drama East-West 101. The UK series of Who Do You Think You Are? has rated well throughout January with the Australian version commencing this week.
Popular motoring program Top Gear returned on Monday night with more than one million viewers and the local version of Top Gear will premiere later in 2008.
In 2008 sports fans will also be able to tune into Euro 2008, the Tour de France and the Beijing Olympics as well as a host of new Australian content to reflect the true diversity of this country.
*Source: Oztam 5 city metro, 18:00- 23:59, free-to-air viewers 16+, wks 1-52; (2006 figures exclude wks 23-28 while 2005 figures exclude wk 24-30 and wk 47)
Background: SBS ratings
2007: 6 per cent
2006: 5.6 per cent (excluding World Cup)
2005: 5.7 per cent (excluding Ashes and World Cup Qualifiers)
2004: 5.1 per cent
2003: 5.1 per cent
[release from SBS]