Press release from ABC TV
In a year dominated by fierce competition between networks and the launch of four new free-to-air channels, ABC TV has increased its share of free-to-air viewers in 2009 by broadening its appeal through ABC1 and ABC2.
ABC TV recorded a prime time share of 17.1 per cent (weeks 7– 48, free-to-air 5 city) 0.1 of a point higher than 2008, which had previously been its most successful ratings year ever.
Complementing the increase in share within the free-to-air TV market, ABC iView has recorded a 140 per cent increase in monthly average visits compared to 2008 and in October there was a record 1 million visits.
In addition, more than 7 million vodcasts of ABC content have been downloaded in 2009 (to end of October). 2009 is the first full year that ABC2 has been part of the ratings cycle and its people share during prime time increased to 1.2 per cent – double that of 2008.
In week 46, ABC2 hit a new peak to reach 2.6 million viewers or 17.6 per cent of the 5 city population. Kim Dalton, Director of ABC TV said “The free-to-air TV landscape this year is hardly recognisable from even just 12 months ago.
I’m delighted that ABC TV has been able to grow its audience in this tough environment, and in fact, has been at the forefront
of this revolution. Come December 4, even more viewers are set to come on board with the launch of the new kids’ channel, ABC3.”