In a rapidly evolving media landscape, commercial TV continues to occupy a distinctive place in Australian society. Through its combination of free access, trusted news, Australian stories, live sport and broad audience reach, it remains as a media platform capable of bringing Australians together around shared moments and common experiences.
The research, which updates Deloitte Access Economics’ previous studies of the sector, explores the industry’s economic contribution as well as its broader social impacts. It highlights the ongoing role of commercial TV in supporting Australian jobs, sustaining local content production, connecting regional communities and supporting social cohesion and democratic participation.
In 2024-25, commercial TV contributed $2.4 billion to Australia’s GDP and supported more than 15,600 full-time equivalent jobs across the economy. Over the past decade, commercial broadcasters also invested $15.6 billion in Australian content, helping ensure local stories, voices and experiences remain visible on screen.
Beyond these economic impacts, commercial TV continues to play an important social role. The report finds that 78% of Australians believe commercial TV creates shared experiences, while 69% say it brings people from different backgrounds together. At a time when concerns about misinformation and media fragmentation are growing, commercial TV remains a trusted source of news and information, reaching 7.6 million Australians through federal election coverage and helping support a more connected, informed and united nation.