Over-the-air (OTA) channels in Australia deliver free television content, from drama and news to sports and kids’ shows.
These channels are mostly broadcast by major networks like ABC, SBS, Seven, Nine, and Ten.
Thanks to streaming apps, you can now access these channels online without an antenna, enjoying live TV and catch-up content on devices like smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming boxes.
Here are some of the best-dedicated apps for Australia’s free-to-air networks, detailing their offerings and how they bring OTA channels to your screen.
1. ABC iView
ABC iView is the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s streaming hub. It offers access to all its OTA channels, including ABC TV, ABC News, ABC Kids, ABC ME, and ABC TV Plus.
Launched in 2008, ABC iView was Australia’s first free-to-air streaming app and remains a standout for its depth and quality.
You can watch live streams of these channels or dive into a vast on-demand library featuring acclaimed dramas like The Newsreader, international hits like Death in Paradise, and kids’ favourites such as Bluey.
The app often premieres shows before their TV broadcast, giving you early access to new episodes. It is user-friendly, with a clean interface, dedicated show pages, and a simplified search tool.
The app is compatible with iOS, Android, smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Hisense), Apple TV, Android TV, PlayStation 4, and Telstra TV. iView requires a free account but delivers ad-free streaming.
Its high-definition live streams surpass the traditional broadcast quality, making it ideal for news junkies or families seeking safe, engaging content.
2. SBS On Demand
SBS On Demand serves as the streaming arm of the Special Broadcasting Service, covering channels like SBS, SBS Viceland, SBS Food, SBS World Movies, and NITV. The app offers live streaming of these channels alongside a rich on-demand catalogue.
Expect diverse programming, from international films on SBS World Movies to Indigenous stories on NITV and culinary shows on SBS Food.
Highlights include dramas like Safe Home, documentaries such as Australia Uncovered, and live sports events like cycling.
The app’s library is particularly strong on foreign-language content with English subtitles, catering to multicultural audiences.
SBS On Demand is available on iOS, Android, smart TVs, Apple TV, Android TV, Fetch TV, and gaming consoles.
Full access requires a free account. Ads appear during on-demand viewing, but the live streams are often uninterrupted.
3. 7plus
Channel Seven’s 7plus app brings its OTA channels—Seven, 7TWO, 7mate, 7flix, and 7Bravo—to your devices with live streaming and catch-up capabilities.
The app has grown significantly, boasting a robust lineup that includes reality hits like SAS Australia, dramas like RFDS, and sports coverage, including cricket and horse racing.
Its on-demand library features full seasons of shows like Home and Away alongside American series like The Good Doctor.
A standout feature is its collection of niche live channels, such as one dedicated to the Nashville show or temporary streams for events like the Paralympics.
The app is compatible with iOS, Android, smart TVs (Samsung, LG), Apple TV, Android TV, Fetch TV, Telstra TV, and gaming consoles. 7plus is free to use with an account.
Ads are present, but the app’s intuitive design and broad content make it a go-to for entertainment fans seeking variety.
4. 9Now
9Now is Channel Nine’s streaming platform, providing live access to its OTA channels: Nine, 9Gem, 9Go!, 9Life, and 9Rush. Whether you are into reality TV like Married at First Sight, dramas like La Brea, or sports like the NRL Grand Final, 9Now delivers.
9Now’s catch-up service includes full seasons of Aussie classics like McLeod’s Daughters and newer shows like The Block, ensuring you never miss a moment.
The app’s interface is straightforward, with easy navigation to live streams or on-demand episodes.
It supports iOS, Android, smart TVs, Apple TV, Android TV, Fetch TV, Telstra TV, and PlayStation and requires a free account for access. Ads interrupt on-demand content, but live streams often flow smoothly, especially for major events.
9Now’s strength lies in its mix of mainstream hits and lifestyle programming, appealing to a wide audience.
5. 10 Play
Network Ten’s 10 Play app streams its OTA channels—Ten, 10 Bold, 10 Peach, and 10 Shake—offering a lively mix of reality, drama, and kids’ content.
You can watch live broadcasts or catch up on shows like Australian Survivor, MasterChef Australia, and The Bold and the Beautiful.
The app’s library has full seasons, including long-running soaps like Neighbours and fast-tracked international episodes. Its kids’ section, tied to 10 Shake, features shows like PAW Patrol, making it family-friendly.
10 Play is available on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Android TV, Fetch TV, Telstra TV, and select Samsung smart TVs. It requires a free account.
Ads are part of the experience, but the app’s clean layout and quick access to live and on-demand content keep it engaging. It is especially strong for reality TV fans and those seeking light, upbeat viewing.
6. Freeview FV
Freeview FV is not tied to a single network, but aggregates live streams from over 30 free-to-air channels, including those from ABC, SBS, Seven, Nine, and Ten, plus extras like Racing.com and 7food. The app was launched to simplify access to OTA content.
Freeview FV offers a unified app to watch live TV or jump to catch-up services like iView or 9Now.
Its mobile app, available on iOS and Android, includes a seven-day TV guide, reminders, and a favourites list, making it easy to plan your viewing.
Freeview also integrates with Freeview-certified smart TVs, providing an always-on guide accessible via your remote. No account is needed for live streaming, but linking network accounts enhances catch-up access.
With no ads on the live streams and a focus on convenience, Freeview FV is perfect for channel surfers who want everything in one place.
These apps generally eliminate the need for a traditional antenna, relying instead on a stable internet connection to deliver live and on-demand content.
Download the apps from your device’s store to get started—most are available on iOS, Android, and major smart TV platforms.