SBS offers live streaming of our TV channels via SBS On Demand. Here's some of the most commonly asked questions about our live streaming service.
Why are certain TV Shows and Movies not available via the live stream on SBS On Demand?
SBS may not have the rights to offer this program on our On Demand service.
For shows that are unavailable on our On Demand service, a placeholder will appear during the live stream blocking the content.
Is the new SBS On Demand Guide available in my local time?
Yes - The SBS On Demand Guide will display in the same timezone that your device is set to. For example, if you are located in Perth, you will see 'Australian Western Standard Time'.
For viewers outside of NSW, wishing to access SBS TV Broadcast times, please refer to the Freeview Guide for your local time.
Why are the times incorrect for shows on the live stream?
Our live stream corresponds to our New South Wales schedule. Therefore, if you live outside of NSW, the schedule will not match your regional TV guide. Please refer to the complete guide on sbs.com.au.
I don’t know what I’m watching. How do I find out?
At this stage, our platform is unable to overlay show or movie titles on the live stream. We are working to enhance the experience over the coming months.
Will the lives stream use up more of my data?
Our live stream max bitrate is 2mbs. Regular streaming of VOD content consumes up to 1.5mbs.
I don’t have a TV – how can I watch SBS Channels? OR Where do I find live streams?
You can live stream all six SBS channels on your laptop and desktop computer or mobile via SBS On Demand. We currently offer the live stream of the New South Wales broadcast channels.
Simply access the live stream on the SBS On Demand website or download the app via the iTunes or Google Play stores to start watching – it's free.
Please note, streaming video will count towards your monthly data consumption.
I am having issues with my live stream. What can I do?
Below are some common issues people have experienced while trying to access the live stream. We recommend you take a look before contacting us so you can enjoy the live stream sooner.
If you are having issues with the live stream, try closing the app completely and re-opening it. You may need to reinstall the app for the App or Play store if it persists.
Common Browser Issues
- If you have an ad-blocker enabled, disable it before hitting play on the live stream as it often causes playback issues. More info on how to disable your ad blocker can be found here.
- Refresh your current browser and re-start the live stream. How to refresh your webpage on different browsers:
- Firefox = CTRL + SHIFT + R on Windows OR COMMAND + SHIFT + R on Mac OS
- Chrome = CTRL + SHIFT + R on Windows, or COMMAND + SHIFT + R on Mac OS
- Safari = ALT + CMD + E
- Try opening the live stream in another browser such as Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Edge
No better?
Get in contact with our team here with as much detail as you can about what you’re seeing. It helps us understand what might be going on a lot quicker.
Send the time of day you were trying to watch the live channel stream, which channel, your device (iPhone10, IP address and the state you’re located in.
Why is my live stream blocked?
Currently, SBS only has the rights to show content within Australia. Due to these restrictions, anyone living outside of Australia will not be able to view the stream as the video service relies on your IP address as your location listing and will automatically geo-block you from seeing the stream.
To understand what location is associated with your IP address go to: whatismyip.com.
I missed the start of an episode via the live stream. Can I begin from the start?
Unfortunately, you can’t rewind a live stream. Many TV shows and movies will be available on SBS On Demand later. Click here to search. If you still can't locate a program, you can contact our team here for further information.
Will recordings of the live stream be available?
No, live streams will not be recorded. Certain TV Show and movies, including SBS flagship shows like SBS News, Insight and Dateline will be available to watch at your convenience on SBS On Demand after they’ve aired on TV. Please note the expiring date of each show on their individual episode page.
What devices is live streaming available on?
Follow this link to see the full list of devices that LIVE streaming is available on https://help.sbs.com.au/hc/en-au/articles/360002033396-What-devices-is-SBS-On-Demand-available-on-
For information about SBS TV click here.