Streaming Surge Propels Seven Past Nine in 2025 TV Ratings
Australia’s TV ratings landscape has witnessed a competitive surge in 2025, with Seven narrowly surpassing Nine in overall viewership. This rivalry has highlighted the growing importance of streaming in reaching wider audiences.
2025 TV Ratings Overview
During the year-long OzTAM survey, which ran from February 9 to November 29, Seven achieved a total television share of 29.4 percent. Nine followed closely with 28.7 percent. ABC secured third place, contributing 21.5 percent of the viewing share, while Network 10 and SBS recorded 12.6 percent and 7.7 percent, respectively.
Key Viewership Statistics
- Seven Total TV Share: 29.4%
- Nine Total TV Share: 28.7%
- ABC Total TV Share: 21.5%
- Network 10 Total TV Share: 12.6%
- SBS Total TV Share: 7.7%
Although the margin between Seven and Nine was narrow, the factors driving viewer engagement were apparent. Live sports, flagship news broadcasts, and enduring reality shows emerged as crucial components in captivating audiences. Streaming has now become integral to these viewing figures.
Seven’s Performance Highlights
Seven’s core strategy remained rooted in sports and news programming. Notably, the AFL coverage attracted 17.58 million viewers across traditional and digital platforms like 7plus Sport. The AFL Grand Final featuring Geelong and Brisbane stood out as Seven’s top program, with 4.19 million viewers tuning in to the broadcast.
Major Sporting Events
- AFL Grand Final Viewership: 4.19 million
- National Reach of AFL Grand Final: 6.4 million
- First Ashes Test in Perth Viewership: 6.2 million
- Average Viewers for First Ashes Test: 1.15 million
- Strongest Session Viewership: 1.49 million (Session 3, Day 2)
- Monthly Reach of 7NEWS: 12 million
Nine’s Strategic Focus
Conversely, Nine cast 2025 as a successful year in key advertising demographics. The network maintained its lead in the five capital cities, particularly among viewers aged 25-54 and 16-39, as well as in significant shopper segments. This strategic emphasis demonstrates Nine’s focus on commercial viability, despite its rank in overall viewership.
The Role of Streaming
The 2025 TV ratings affirmed the central role of live sports in drawing large audiences. Furthermore, flagship news bulletins are essential for building loyalty and trust among viewers. The growing impact of streaming platforms has amplified the reach and accessibility of these programs, ensuring that networks like Seven and Nine continue to evolve in a competitive landscape.
In conclusion, 2025 showcased the dynamic interplay between traditional broadcasting and modern streaming. As networks adapt, the importance of engaging content remains paramount in attracting and retaining audiences.
