Help

FAQs

This is where you can find out about accessing ABC TV digital channels, Freeview, and watching ABC TV programs on your computer or mobile device.

  • Watching video online (streaming)
    • Streaming video is watched online in your browser, and cannot be saved to your computer. This limitation is mainly due to copyright restrictions on particular content. Video you watch on iView is an example of streaming video. A fast internet connection is required.
  • Downloading video
    • Downloading video works the opposite way to streaming. You first download the video to your computer, then watch it whenever you like on whatever compatible device you like.
    New ABC television website design FAQs
  • About the ABC television website design
    • The TV section of the abc.net.au website is regularly used by millions of Australians to find out what’s on ABC TV and discover new ABC programs.

      A new website was developed to allow you to get this information on your desktop, mobile or tablet device.

      The following provides some information about the research, vision, design aims and user testing we undertook, as well as how we’re addressing your feedback.

      Our Approach
      Our User Experience and Design team interviewed a broad group of people to learn more about what they liked and disliked about the TV section of the abc.net.au website & in particular, how they used the TV Guide. They used this research to build interactive prototypes to test with a group of people & further improve the design. This resulted in the following changes to the way the website works.

      Results
        Design & usability
      • You can now view the website on mobile devices
      • We have improved the look of the home page, highlighting the best content across the network
      • iview content is easier to find with a section for highlighted content on the home page
      • It is easier to find your way around the site & search programs
      • Quick links to ABC social channels such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram can now be found in the top navigation
        Search and Browse
      • It is now easier to find your way around the site and search for your favourite programs.
      • We have improved our A to Z listing making it simple to browse through the ABC TV catalogue.
        TV Guide
      • When viewing the TV Guide, you can see all free to air channel listings at one time.
      • We simplified the TV Guide, taking out the search by category but making it easier to see what’s on now & jump to time of day
        Location Setting
      • You can easily set your location in the top right-hand corner to ensure the correct TV guide information displays for your region

      Your Feedback
      Your feedback is valuable to us. Please let us know if you have any comments which could help us improve your experience
      Leave your feedback
  • Supported browsers / devices
    • Desktop Browsers

        Windows 7
      • Internet Explorer v8/9/10/11
      • Firefox v33.1
      • Chrome v39.0.2171.65m
      • Opera 21

        Windows 8
      • Internet Explorer v10

        Mac OS x 10.8 / 10.0
      • Safari 7
      • Firefox v33.1
      • Chrome v33.1
    • Mobile Devices

      Device Browser OS Version
      iPad Air Safari iOS 7.1.2
      iPhone 5 Safari iOS 7.1.1
      iPad Mini Safari iOS 8.1
      iPhone 4 Safari iOS 6
      HTC One SV Default Web Android 4.0.4 (Ice Cream Sandwich)
      Asus Nexus 7 Google Chrome Android 4.2.1
      Samsung Galaxy S4 (Black) - GT19505 Default Browser Android 4.2.2 (JellyBean)
      Samsung Galaxy Note 8 - GT-N5110 Default Browser Android 4.1.2
      Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1(White) - GT-N8010 Default Browser Android 4.0.4
      Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 (Black 2013) - GT-N8020 Default Browser Android 4.1.2
      Samsung Galaxy Note Pro 12.2" - SM-P900 Default Browser Android 4.4
      Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 (Black) - SM-T530 Default Browser Android 4.4.2
      LG Nexus 5 - KRT16M Default Chrome Android 4.4 (Kit Kat)
      Samsung Galaxy Tab S - SMT700 Default Internet Browser Android 4.4.2
  • How to navigate the TV Guide
    • Desktop users:
      Thank you for contacting us regarding the new ABC TV website and TV guide. We appreciate your feedback as we continue to improve the ABC TV site and its ease of use. We understand the new design is different from what you have become used to, however it provides better search and navigation functions across all Free-to-Air channels, not just the ABC channels, which allow you to find the programs you would like to watch.
      Here are some helpful navigation tips for the new and improved site when accessing it from your desktop:
      • A full days schedule for today and next week, can be found by clicking on channel logos on the left side of the page. Next & previous week’s schedule are available by clicking on “Next Week” and “Previous Week”, or you can choose a specific ‘day’ via the tabs within the blue bar at the top of the page (below the TV Guide heading).
      • The scroll-bar (the little box with arrows sitting on the top blue line) can be dragged back & forth horizontally across a 24 hour period within that day. You can also jump to that particular time of day by clicking on “Morning, Afternoon, Evening or Late” located underneath the blue bar.
      Mobile/Tablet users:
      Thank you for contacting us regarding the new ABC TV website and TV guide. We appreciate your feedback as we continue to improve the ABC TV site and its ease of use. We understand the new design is different from what you have become used to, however it provides better search and navigation functions across all Free-to-Air channels, not just the ABC channels, which allow you to find the programs you would like to watch.
      Here are some helpful navigation tips for the new and improved site when accessing it on your mobile or tablet device:
      • A full days schedule for today and next week, can be found by clicking on channel logo. Once on a channel schedule, next & previous days schedule are available by clicking on “Next Day” and “Previous Day” links in the blue bar at the top.
  • Can I view the new TV website on my mobile and tablet?
    • Yes, our new website has been optimised to display information on mobile devices.
  • How do I navigate through the TV Guide?
    • You can use the button at the top of page to scrub through program listings, or click on time of day (i.e. On Now, Morning, Afternoon, Evening, Late). You can also change the date by clicking on the desired date tab.
      Screenshot - How do I navigate through the TV Guide
  • What is the difference to the TV website when I view on mobile devices?
    • You will only see a mini EPG. This is to ensure you do not experience loading issues & have a more simplified view of what’s showing on air now & next.
  • Can I see what’s on iview in the new TV Guide?
    • Yes, by clicking on programs with the iview icon. As programs are made available on iview, the EPG updates. Simply navigate through to previous days to find out what’s playing on iview.
      Screenshot - Can I see what?s on iview in the new TV Guide?
  • How do I set my location for the right TV listings?
    • By clicking on location and selecting your region through a dropdown.
      Screenshot - How do I set my location for the right TV listings?
  • Why can’t I get a program summary for the Free to Air channel listings?
    • A limited amount of information is made available for non-ABC channels.
  • How can I provide my feedback on the new ABC TV website or ask a question?
    • Go to the Contact Us form & leave your question.
  • How can I view the website in accessibility mode using safari?
    • Turn on ‘Voiceover’ by opening your Mac ‘System Preferences’. Make sure ‘Enable access for assistive devices’ is checked. Then, open the Safari Browser client and go to ‘Preferences’ >> ‘Advanced’. Under the accessibility sub heading make sure you select the checkbox “Press Tab to highlight each item on a webpage’.
      Screenshot - How can I view the website in accessibility mode using safari?
  • How does the search work in the new website?
    • You can use the search box on the home page to find a program or navigate to the programs page which allows you to search via A-Z listing or category. The search result will bring up ABC program information. To find out about free to air channel listings, simply go to the full TV Guide.
    ABC News 24 FAQs
  • How can I find ABC News 24?
    • You will need a high definition digital television or set-top box to receive ABC News 24. When it launches, ABC News 24 will be on channel 24. If it doesn't appear automatically, try to restore the factory, or default, settings on your digital equipment and do a rescan, instructions should be in your manual.

      If you are watching through Foxtel IQ2 it will be channel 642 and if you subscribe through Austar, it will be channel 24. Optus viewers will not be able to access ABC News 24, as their service does not offer HD.
  • How do I watch ABC News 24 on Foxtel if I don't have Foxtel's HD service?
    • If you are an existing Foxtel subscriber and you want to access the channel through your Foxtel box you will need the HD/IQ service. Otherwise, you will find it on digital HD Channel 24.
      On Austar, you will need to subscribe to MyStar HD; ABC News 24 will be on Austar channel 024.
      As ABC News 24 is broadcast in HD, it is not currently available to regular Foxtel or Austar subscribers (i.e. those who do not subscribe to Foxtel HD or MyStar HD). Similarly, it is not available to Optus, TransACT or Neighbourhood Cable pay-TV subscribers.
      If you do not subscribe to Foxtel HD or MyStar HD but do have an HD digital television or set-top box, you can get ABC News 24 by exiting the pay-TV system and using your digital television/ set-top box to access the channel free-to-air; ABC News 24 will be on channel 24.
  • I have digital but can't access ABC News 24
    • ABC News 24 is broadcast in high definition (HD), therefore your television or set top box must be able to receive HD.
  • I don't have digital TV. Is there any other way to get ABC News 24?
    • You can watch online. The channel will be streamed live at abc.net.au/news24 and will also be available to view through ABC iView. Note that streaming video may count towards your download limits. For more information on this, please check our video help section.

      You can also access content from ABC News 24 on your mobile. iPhone users can download the updated ABC App from the iTunes store which will allow you to stream ABC News 24.
  • Can I watch ABC News 24 on my phone?
    • iPhone users can download the updated ABC App from the iTunes store which will allow you to stream ABC News 24.
  • Why is ABC News 24 only broadcast in AEST?
    • ABC News 24 is a live, continuous news channel that presents news as it happens, therefore it would not make sense to delay the channel broadcast.
  • I live overseas. Why can't I access the online stream for ABC News 24?
    • Some of the content used on ABC News 24 comes from international sources such as Reuters, for which we only have the rights to use within Australia. Therefore, we are legally prevented from allowing the channel to be viewed outside of Australia.
  • Why is ABC News 24 only broadcast in HD?
    • The ABC is required by law to broadcast ABC1 in standard definition (SD) digital. Due to the limitations of the bandwidth we have the capacity to broadcast one HD and three SD channels - with the introduction of a fourth distinct channel we no longer have the option to simulcast ABC1 in both SD and HD.
  • Will watching ABC News 24 online affect my download limits?
    • ABC News 24 will be streamed live online and will therefore contribute to your download limits. Please check with your internet service provider for details.
    General FAQs
  • Where is the general ABC help section?
  • Where can I find help with TV reception problems?
    • If you are experiencing reception problems please visit the ABC Reception Advice website. There you will find news about any outages in your area as well as general information about digital TV reception issues which may be of assistance in diagnosing and solving your problem. You can also contact the Reception Advice team by calling 1300 13 9994 or by using the form on the Contact Us page of the website.
  • What's happening to ABC HD?
    • In preparation for the 24 hour news channel, ABC1 HD on channel 20 has become a direct simulcast of ABC1 NSW standard definition - that is, all programs will be up-converted from SD, the ABC1 watermark has replaced the HD watermark and NSW Stateline will be broadcast on Friday evenings instead of the composite 7:30 Report program.

      The next change that will occur when ABC News 24 launches, at which time the ABC1 HD channel 20 will be taken off air.
  • Why will the HD channel be removed?
    • The HD channel has not been "removed"; it has been reallocated to ABC News 24.

      The ABC only has a specific amount of digital spectrum in which to broadcast all its services. To launch ABC News 24, we need the spectrum currently being used to broadcast our ABC1 HD channel. By law the ABC also must provide its main channel, ABC1, in standard definition.

      To continue to watch ABC1 once ABC News 24 starts, please switch to channel 2 or 21 if you are watching free-to-air television or channel 102 for subscription television.
  • Does this mean that ABC will not broadcast anything in HD?
    • ABC News 24 will be broadcast in HD. All other channels (ABC1, ABC2, and ABC3) will be broadcast in SD (standard definition).
  • How will I find ABC News 24?
    • You will need a high definition digital television or set-top box to receive ABC News 24. When it launches, ABC News 24 will be on channel 24. If it doesn't appear automatically, try to restore the factory, or default, settings on your digital equipment and do a rescan, instructions should be in your manual.

      If you are watching through Foxtel IQ2 it will be channel 642 and if you subscribe through Austar, it will be channel 24. Optus viewers will not be able to access ABC News 24, as their service does not offer HD.
  • Do I need Foxtel's HD service in order to receive ABC News 24
    • If you are an existing Foxtel subscriber and you want to access the channel through your Foxtel box you will need the HD/IQ service. Otherwise, you will find it on digital HD Channel 24.
  • Why is the App only available for iPhone?
    • The cost of developing applications for different platforms means we have to prioritise what we create. Currently, the iPhone is the most popular smart phone in Australia and represents by far the biggest uptake of ABC smart phone applications - even though ABC apps are available on other devices. Ultimately, we intend to make this service available on a wide range of devices.
  • I don't have HD TV. Is there any other way to get ABC News 24?
    • You can watch online. The channel will be streamed live at abc.net.au/news/abcnews24 and will also be available to view through ABC iView.
      Note that streaming video may count towards your download limits. For more information on this, please check our video help section.

      You can also access content from ABC News 24 on your mobile. iPhone users can download the updated ABC App from the iTunes store which will allow you to stream ABC News 24.
  • Why is ABC News 24 only broadcast in AEST?
    • ABC News 24 is a live, continuous news channel that presents news as it happens, therefore it would not make sense to delay the channel broadcast.
  • I live overseas. Why can't I access the online stream for ABC News 24?
    • Some of the content used on ABC News 24 comes from international sources such as Reuters, for which we only have the rights to use within Australia. Therefore, we are legally prevented from allowing the channel to be viewed outside of Australia.
  • What about those programs like Doctor Who, that are made in native HD? It's a waste of the technology just for news.
    • The ABC is required by law to broadcast ABC1 in standard definition (SD) digital. Due to the limitations of the bandwidth we have the capacity to broadcast one HD and three SD channels - with the introduction of a fourth distinct channel we no longer have the option to simulcast ABC1 in both SD and HD.

      Many people currently have SD receivers and we can not disenfranchise these viewers by removing access to a service they could previously watch.

      At some point after complete digital switchover we can reassess the situation - particularly as HD receivers become the norm and other technological changes occur.
  • Are ABC2 and ABC3 24-hour services?
    • Not yet. ABC2 programs are being broadcast from 6am to midnight and ABC3 screens from 6am - 9pm EST.
  • Can I watch ABC TV on my mobile?
    • ABC TV offers a range of program content for mobile, including, including news, recipes from Poh's Kitchen, movie reviews, triple j TV content and program guide information. Or more information about ABC on mobile, go here http://www.abc.net.au/mobile
  • What is ABC iView?
    • ABC iView lets you catch up on your favourite TV shows on your computer, gaming device or internet-connected TV. It offers a huge selection of TV shows from ABC TV, which are streamed in full screen. It's best for people who have a high-speed broadband connection. For more details, check the iView information page.
  • Can I watch TV online if I don't have high-speed broadband?
    • If you don't have high speed broadband, you can still watch many ABC TV programs streamed online at a lower resolution at various websites - such as Four Corners, Media Watch, At the Movies and many more. Go to watch now for more information about programs available to view.
  • When can I access content?
    • ABC streaming video is available on demand, so in most cases you can watch the content whenever you like. Some programs, however, may "expire" after a given time. Check the individual program's website for more information. In the case of downloading video, some programs offer the latest episode only, while others offer all past episodes.
  • Why am I being told I'm NOT in Australia?
    • Due to copyright reasons, some video programs are available for download by people located in Australia only. The technology behind this geo-blocking service sometimes gets it wrong. If you ARE located in Australia, but are unable to download videos because of this issue, we would appreciate your help with improving this service. Please provide your details using this form to help us resolve the problem.
    Digital TV FAQs
  • What is digital TV?
    • Digital TV is a different way of delivering television signals to your home. Currently Australia is in the process of switching from an analogue to a digital television broadcast delivery service. This means that sometime between now and 2013; you will need to have a digital television or free-to-air digital set top box to watch any free-to-air television. ABC1 is currently available on the analogue and digital channels, but ABC2, ABC3 and ABC News24 are only available on digital TV, or through subscription television. Find out more here.
  • When will the analogue service be switched off?
    • It depends where you live. Check the Federal Government's Digital TV switchover map here.
  • How do I find ABC TV channels on digital TV?
    • Provider ABC1 ABC2/ABC4Kids ABC3 ABCNews24
      Digital TV 2 and 21 22 23 24
      Foxtel 102 134 723 642
      Optus 102 126 723 NA
  • Can I receive ABC TV digital channels if I live in regional Australia?
    • Australia has been broadcasting free-to-air, digital TV services since 1 January 2001. At launch, it was only available in five capitals. Now over 97% of the Australian population can receive ABC free-to-air digital transmissions across regional and metropolitan areas.
  • ABC TV is a national service - will the digital channels be shown in the right time zone throughout the country?
    • As a free-to-air service, ABC TV's digital channels are available in the correct time zone for each state. Audiences watching via a subscription cable television service (Foxtel digital cable, TransACT and Neighbourhood Cable) will also receive ABC2 in the correct time zone for their state. However, the high cost of satellite capacity prevents us from providing a version of ABC2, ABC3 and ABC News 24 for each time zone for viewers of Foxtel satellite or Austar services. For those audiences, the channels will be available only in Eastern Standard time in winter, and Eastern Daylight Time during daylight saving.
  • Is there anything on the digital channels that I won't see on the main ABC TV channel?
    • Yes, each channel offers completely different schedules to ABC1. You can watch dramas, comedies, documentaries and more that will not be seen on ABC1. For details check our online program guide at abc.net.au/tv/guide

      You can also sign up for ABC TV's email newsletter which will give you highlights information for all channels. Signup here.
  • Where can I find information about ABC TV's digital channel programs?
    • Program information is available:
      On screen
      One of the advantages of digital television is that you can view an online program guide for each channel - known as an EPG (electronic program guide). Information on what is on now and what is coming up next is available on your free-to-air television screen by using your remote control, usually by pressing the "I" or "info" button.

      If you have subscription television, check your service's electronic program guide which offers up to a week's program information in advance.

      Online
      A comprehensive program guide for ABC TV is available via our website at www.abc.net.au/tv . Weekly online guides are also available from www.yourtv.com.au au.tv.yahoo.com and tvguide.ninemsn.com.au

      In print
      ABC TV digital channel listings are now also available in many newspapers including TV Week, The Australian, Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, Herald Sun. The Courier Mail, Border Mail (Albury Wodonga), Canberra Times, Sunday Mail (Brisbane) and Sunday Mail (Adelaide).
  • I am experiencing problems with receiving ABC News 24
    • To get ABC News 24, you may need to get your digital set top box or digital TV to rescan all channels. This channel is broadcast in High Definition (HD) so your digital TV or set-top box must be able to receive HD for you to view the channel. First you should try doing a factory reset and automatic rescan of your digital equipment - instructions on how to do this will be in your equipment manual. If you still experience problems after this step, you can contact our Reception Advice Line on 1300 13 9994 to check whether there are any difficulties with your local transmitter. If this is not the cause, you may need to seek advice from an antenna installer or electrical retailer or equipment manufacturer.
  • I am experiencing problems with my digital reception
    • If you are experiencing reception problems please visit the ABC Reception Advice website. There you will find news about any outages in your area as well as general information about digital TV reception issues which may be of assistance in diagnosing and solving your problem. You can also contact the Reception Advice team by calling 1300 13 9994
  • What is Freeview?
    • Freeview is the collection of free-to-air channels available on the digital network including ABC TV, SBS, Channel 7, Channel 9 and Channel 10. To access Freeview, all you need is a high definition digital television or high definition digital set top box. More information about Freeview is available on their website
    Video FAQs
  • Will my Internet Service Provider charge me for watching ABC Video content?
    • Some ISPs specifically exclude ABC video content from their 'data meters', which means that watching ABC video won't affect your download limit or cap. Check with your ISP.
  • Why can't I get the video to play at work or school?
    • Your computer at work or school may be behind a firewall, which in some circumstances can stop streaming video content from playing properly. You will need to contact your network administrator about adjusting the firewall's settings.
  • Why does the video keep stopping and starting?
    • Network congestion will cause the video to repeatedly buffer. If you know you have a good broadband connection that is rated at 256kb or higher, and you consistently get playback problems, you may need to talk to your Internet service provider to sort out any potential problems with your connection configuration, or the level of service you're being provided.
  • ABC Broadband codecs
    • ABC Broadband uses the following codecs in its presentations:
      - Flash content uses the On2 VP6 codec for both video streams.
      - Windows Media content uses the version 9 video codec and the version 9 audio codec.
  • How do I get better performance from streaming video?
    • You can adjust settings in your video player software to reduce the impact of network congestion. This works by increasing the amount of video your player buffers before beginning to play. This may increase the time you have to wait before the video starts, but should mean playback is interrupted less often.
      In Windows Media Player version 9:
      From the Tools menu, select Options. The options box will appear.
      In the options box, click the Performance tab.
      In the middle of the Performance section will be a Network Buffering box. Check the Buffer option, and try increasing the seconds of content until you find a balance between buffering and performance that works for you.
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