Perth

1. Television Channels

Perth has a mix of free-to-air and subscription-based TV channels that provide local, national, and international news, entertainment, and cultural programming.

Free-to-Air TV Channels

These channels are accessible without a subscription, provided you have a TV and an antenna:

• ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation): A government-funded channel offering news, current affairs, documentaries, and entertainment. ABC News is a reliable source for local and national news.
• SBS (Special Broadcasting Service): Known for multicultural programming, SBS provides international news, documentaries, and shows in multiple languages.
• Seven Network (Channel 7 Perth): A commercial channel with a strong focus on local news, sports, and entertainment.
• Nine Network (Channel 9 Perth): Offers local news, current affairs, and popular TV shows.
• Network Ten (Channel 10 Perth): Features news, entertainment, and lifestyle programming.
• Community TV (Channel 31): Focuses on local community content, including niche cultural and educational programs.

Subscription TV

• Foxtel: A popular pay-TV service in Australia offering a wide range of channels, including news (Sky News Australia), sports, movies, and entertainment. Subscription costs start at AUD 25/month for the basic package and increase depending on additional channels.
• Streaming Services: Many Perth residents use streaming platforms like Netflix, Stan, and Kayo Sports for on-demand content. ABC iView and SBS On Demand are free streaming services for content from ABC and SBS.

Access

• Free-to-air channels require a TV and antenna.
• Subscription services like Foxtel can be accessed via cable or satellite, and streaming services require an internet connection.

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2. Newspapers

Perth has a mix of traditional print newspapers and digital news platforms. Here are the key players:

Major Newspapers

• The West Australian: The most prominent daily newspaper in Perth, covering local, national, and international news, as well as sports, business, and lifestyle.
  • Cost: AUD 2.50 for a weekday edition, AUD 3.50 for the Saturday edition.
  • Digital Subscription: Starts at AUD 1 for the first 28 days, then AUD 7.50/week.
• The Sunday Times: A popular Sunday newspaper focusing on news, entertainment, and lifestyle.
  • Cost: AUD 3.50 for the print edition.
  • Digital Access: Included with The West Australian subscription.

Community and Suburban Newspapers

• PerthNow: A free online news platform associated with The Sunday Times, offering local news and updates.
• Western Suburbs Weekly: A free community newspaper distributed in Perth’s western suburbs, focusing on hyper-local news and events.

Access

• Print editions are available at newsagents, supermarkets, and convenience stores.
• Digital subscriptions can be purchased online via the newspaper’s website.

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3. Radio Stations

Perth has a variety of radio stations catering to different tastes, including news, talkback, music, and multicultural programming.

News and Talkback Radio

• ABC Radio Perth (720 AM): A government-funded station offering local news, current affairs, and talkback programs.
• 6PR (882 AM): A commercial talkback station focusing on news, sports, and community issues.

Music and Entertainment

• Nova 93.7: A popular station for contemporary music and entertainment.
• 96FM: Plays classic hits and features local presenters.
• Triple J (105.7 FM): A national youth-focused station with alternative music and cultural programming.

Multicultural and Community Radio

• SBS Radio: Offers programs in multiple languages, catering to Perth’s multicultural population.
• RTRFM (92.1 FM): A community radio station featuring independent music and local cultural content.

Access

• Radio stations are free to access via FM/AM radio or online streaming through their websites or apps.

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4. Online News Platforms

Digital media is increasingly popular in Perth, with many residents relying on online platforms for news and updates.

Key Platforms

• ABC News Online: Free access to local, national, and international news at www.abc.net.au/news.
• PerthNow: Free online news platform with a focus on Perth-specific stories.
• WAtoday: A Fairfax Media-owned website offering local and national news. Free access with some premium content requiring a subscription.
• The West Australian Digital Edition: Offers a digital replica of the print newspaper. Subscription required.

Social Media

• Many news outlets, including ABC Perth, The West Australian, and PerthNow, maintain active social media accounts on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, providing real-time updates.

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5. Cultural and Local Considerations

• Multicultural Media: Perth is a multicultural city, and SBS Radio and TV, as well as community newspapers, cater to diverse cultural groups. Engaging with these platforms can help you stay connected to your cultural roots or learn about other communities.
• Indigenous Media: Perth has media outlets that focus on Indigenous issues and perspectives, such as NITV (National Indigenous Television), available on SBS.
• Local Focus: Perth’s media often emphasizes local news, events, and issues, reflecting the city’s strong sense of community. This is particularly evident in community newspapers and radio stations.
• Time Zone Awareness: Perth operates on Australian Western Standard Time (AWST), which is often behind the eastern states of Australia. National news broadcasts may be delayed or adjusted to fit the local schedule.

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6. Tips for Accessing Perth’s Media

• Stay Updated: Download apps for ABC News, SBS On Demand, and The West Australian to receive notifications and updates.
• Explore Free Options: Take advantage of free-to-air TV, community radio, and online platforms like PerthNow for cost-effective access to news.
• Engage Locally: Participate in talkback radio or community events advertised in local media to connect with Perth’s community.

By leveraging these resources, you can stay informed and engaged with Perth’s vibrant local culture and news scene.