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. You can check out which programs are available for catch up via the SBS online guide (look for the PLAY symbol against any content making its way to SBS On Demand).
For shows that are unavailable on our On Demand service, a placeholder will appear during the live stream blocking the content.
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. We are in the process of further developing our live stream to offer live TV per region. In the meantime, 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. For the most up-to-date information on what is currently streaming, please refer to the complete guide on sbs.com.au. 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.
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. If this doesn’t resolve the problem, please get in touch.
- Refresh your current browser and re-start the live stream. How to refresh your webpage on different browsers:
- Internet Explorer = CTRL + F5
- 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
- Ensure the latest version of Flash Player is installed.
- Try opening the live stream in another browser such as Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Edge
Common Issues
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.
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. Some shows and movies will be available on SBS On Demand later. Please refer to the guide on sbs.com.au to see if a PLAY symbol is on the guide to indicate if it will be available On Demand when it’s convenient for you.
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-