The most important audience share ratings
period is generally considered to be the evening period between 6 pm
and midnight, which is when most people watch television. Each metropolitan
and regional market is rated separately but it is the collective ratings
performance in the five metropolitan markets (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane,
Perth and Adelaide) during the evening period that is the most commonly
cited measure of network popularity with audiences.
During the 26-year period between 1983 and 2008,
the three commercial networks have dominated the audience ratings on
free-to-air television with an average share of 83 per cent; however,
this has fallen to 79.5 per cent in the past ten years and to 76.9 per
cent in 2008. Over that same period, the ratings of the two public, non-commercial
broadcasters – ABC and SBS – have each risen fairly steadily.
Historically, Nine usually topped the ratings
with Seven in a strong second position and Ten a distant third. However,
in 2007, Seven displaced Nine as the top-rating network; in 2008, it
increased its lead.
Ratings in the five metropolitan markets, 6 pm
to midnight, 1983–2008
Network
Last 26 years
average
Last 10 years
average
2008
Seven
29.1%
28.1%
29.5%
Nine
31.2%
29.8%
26.7%
Ten
22.7%
21.6%
20.7%
Subtotal
83.0%
79.5%
76.9%
ABC1
13.8%
15.7%
17.4%
SBS
3.2%
4.8%
5.6%
Subtotal
17.1%
20.5%
23.0%
Total
100%
100%
100%
Source: 1983 to 1990, McNair Anderson; 1991 to
2000, ACNielsen; and from January 2001, OzTAM. Averages compiled by the
Screen Australia.
Notes:
Figures may not total exactly due to rounding.
Figures are per cent shares of free-to-air viewing, excluding subscription
television, videos and out-of-market stations. Figures include the Olympics
(weeks 38 to 41 in 2000).
Any comparison between data before and after January 2001 should take
into account that a different audience measurement system has applied
since that date.
1. Prior to June 2008, share for ABC is based on ABC1 only; from 1 June
2008 it is based on ABC1 and ABC2.
