Network Ten to go off air in country SA and NSW as WIN Television deal lapses
The end of a broadcast deal between Network Ten and Win Television is set to leave three regional markets without access to multiple channels.
www.abc.net.auHere’s a quick update on the Network 10 win deal ending, based on the latest reporting.
Answer
- The latest coverage indicates that Network Ten’s affiliation with WIN Television is ending in several regional markets (Griffith, Mount Gambier, and the Riverland) with those regions losing free-to-air access to Network Ten and related channels after mid-2026, as WIN does not renew the program supply agreement. Subsequent reports suggest viewers in these areas would rely on streaming where available.[2][4]
Context and key developments
- What’s ending: The end of the WIN-Network Ten affiliate arrangement means Network Ten and related channels (such as 7mates and 7two in those markets) will cease broadcasting in the three affected regional areas, beginning July 2026 if no deal is struck.[4][2]
- Markets affected: Griffith (NSW), Mount Gambier and Riverland (SA) are named as the regional markets impacted by the exit.[2][4]
- Reason cited: The move is framed as a response to ongoing financial pressures and the evolving economics of regional broadcasting, including advertiser trends and the viability of traditional broadcast in smaller markets.[4][2]
- Related industry activity: Network Ten has been involved in broader regional-licence activity, including acquisitions of WIN’s Northern NSW licence and related regional expansions, which contextually explains the strategic reshaping of its regional footprint. This broader consolidation has been reported across multiple outlets and dates in 2024–2025.[3][6][7][9][10]
What this means for viewers
- If you’re in Griffith, Mount Gambier, or Riverland, you may lose free-to-air access to Network Ten’s main channel and some associated channels starting July 2026 unless a new agreement is reached. You might need to rely on streaming options or alternative local affiliates where available.[2][4]
- Network Ten has indicated disappointment but notes that streaming could mitigate some limitations for those with internet access.[4]
Illustrative example
- In practice, a viewer in Mount Gambier who previously watched Network Ten on a regional affiliate may need to switch to Ten’s streaming apps or other platforms to access shows like MasterChef, Survivor, or cricket, should those programs be made available via streaming. This mirrors the shift many regional viewers face as traditional broadcast partnerships end.[4]
Citations
- Network Ten to go off air in country SA and NSW as WIN Television deal lapses [ABC News, 2026-05-18][2]
- WIN to drop Network 10 services in three regional markets [MediaWeek, 2026-05-17][4]
- Network 10 to acquire WIN’s Northern NSW TV licence, part of regional expansion context [TV Blackbox, 2025-02-12][3]
- Network 10 completes acquisition of WIN’s Northern NSW licence [MediaWeek, 2025-04-29][10]
If you’d like, I can compile a concise timeline of events and pull direct quotes from the articles for precise wording, or map the affected regions on a quick regional map.