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Nine Network

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The Nine Network is a major commercial free-to-air television network in Australia.

Nine Network logo (2008)
Nine Network logo (2008)

It is currently one of the five primary free-to-air networks serving the nation. The network is owned by a parent company called Nine Entertainment. In terms of popularity, it is the second-rated network in Australia as of 2025. It sits behind the Seven Network in the ratings. However, it remains ahead of ABC TV, Network 10, and SBS.

Nine Network, Docklands
Nine Network, Docklands

The network's origins began with a single broadcasting station in Sydney. This station, known as TCN-9, launched on 16 September 1956. Frank Packer, the owner of The Daily Telegraph, launched this first station. During the launch, John Godson introduced the station to the public. Bruce Gyngell then presented the first program, titled "This Is Television." This event made Gyngell the first person to ever appear on Australian television.

1 Denison Street North Sydney
1 Denison Street North Sydney

As time passed, the network grew through the addition of several other stations. GTV-9 in Melbourne began transmissions to broadcast the 1956 Summer Olympics. By 1959, the network expanded to include QTQ-9 in Brisbane and NWS-9 in Adelaide. These stations formed the basis of the National Television Network. By 1967, the group began calling itself the National Nine Network. In 1988, it was officially rebranded as Nine Network Australia.

Nine Network, Docklands
Nine Network, Docklands

Ownership of the network has seen significant changes over several decades. Kerry Packer inherited the company in 1974 after his father died. In 1987, Alan Bond purchased the network for one billion dollars. This deal became effective in 1988 following government approvals. However, Bond Media sold the Perth station, STW-9, for A$95 million in 1989. This sale was due to federal cross-media ownership laws. Following Alan Bond's bankruptcy in 1992, the network fell back into the hands of Kerry Packer.

Nine Network logo (2008)
Nine Network logo (2008)

Technological shifts have also transformed how the Nine Network operates. The network was the first in Australia to regularly screen color programs. While official color conversion happened on 1 March 1975, color programs premiered as early as 1971. In 2001, digital terrestrial television was introduced to the country. By 10 December 2013, Nine stopped broadcasting on analogue TV entirely. Now, the network is only available through digital TV or a digital set-top box.

9HD Logo 2020
9HD Logo 2020

The network has expanded its reach through various digital multi-channels. In 2009, it launched the digital channel GO!, which is now known as 9Go!. This channel was primarily aimed at a younger demographic. On 26 September 2010, the network launched its third digital channel, GEM. GEM is an acronym for General Entertainment and Movies. In 2015, Nine launched a lifestyle channel called 9Life on channel 94. The network also provides a high-definition service called 9HD.

9HD Logo 2020
9HD Logo 2020

Nine's history is also marked by its famous slogans and branding. From 1977 to 2006, the network used the slogan "Let Us Be The One." This was modeled on a campaign used by the ABC in the United States. In 1978, the slogan changed to "Still the One." This branding lasted until a decline in ratings occurred in 2006. Between 2017 and 2021, the network used the slogan "We Are the One." These slogans helped define the network's identity for many different generations of viewers.

Nine Network logo (2008)
Nine Network logo (2008)

Throughout its history, the network has produced significant news and entertainment. In 1967, Nine paid $5,000 for the rights to televise a football grand final live nationally. The National Nine News became a highly watched service for many years. The network has also seen massive success with specific programs. For example, the first season of the drama Underbelly attracted over 2.5 million viewers. Even during periods of change, the network remains a central part of Australian media.

Australian media interviews an Australian army trainer at Camp Taji, Iraq, Feb. 26, 2017
Australian media interviews an Australian army trainer at Camp Taji, Iraq, Feb. 26, 2017
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🖼️ Images & Media (6)
File:Nine Network logo (2008).svg
Nine Network logo (2008).svg
File:Nine Network, Docklands.jpg
Nine Network, Docklands.jpg
File:1 Denison Street North Sydney.jpg
1 Denison Street North Sydney.jpg
File:Australian media interviews an Australian army trainer at Camp Taji, Iraq, Feb. 26, 2017.jpg
Australian media interviews an Australian...
File:Nine Plaza, Perth - Studio.jpg
Nine Plaza, Perth - Studio.jpg
File:9HD Logo 2020.png
9HD Logo 2020.png
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