How to Watch SBS On Demand on Smart TV in Australia

What SBS On Demand is

SBS On Demand is the free streaming platform from Australia's multicultural national broadcaster. It offers live channels, films, series, documentaries, news and sport. A free SBS account is used for personalisation, favourites and device linking.

Check whether your television is supported

SBS publishes a current device list. At the time of writing, it includes Samsung and LG televisions from 2017, Hisense televisions from 2021, Apple TV 4th generation and later, selected Android TV devices, Fire TV, Google TV Streamer, Fetch, Foxtel iQ and Hubbl. Always check the exact model before purchasing hardware.

Install SBS On Demand on Samsung TV

1. Press Home on the Samsung remote.
2. Open Apps.
3. Search for SBS On Demand.
4. Select the official application.
5. Choose Install, then Add to Home.
6. Open the app and follow the sign-in instructions.

Install SBS On Demand on LG TV

1. Open the LG Content Store.
2. Search for SBS On Demand.
3. Install or update the official app.
4. Restart the television if the app does not appear immediately.
5. Open the app and link the account.

Install SBS On Demand on Hisense TV

Open the VIDAA app store and search for SBS On Demand. SBS lists supported Hisense models from 2021. If the app is missing, identify the full model number and check the SBS help page before changing region settings.

Link the television with a QR code

1. Open SBS On Demand on the television.
2. Select Sign In.
3. Scan the QR code with a phone, or enter the displayed link in a browser.
4. Sign in to the official SBS account.
5. Confirm the television link.

Use only the official SBS website. A legitimate SBS account flow should not send you to an unrelated payment page. If the code expires, return to the television and generate a fresh code.

Fire TV, Google TV and Apple TV

On Fire TV, open the Amazon Appstore, search for SBS On Demand and choose Get. On Google TV or Android TV, use Google Play. On Apple TV, use the Apple App Store. Keep the operating system updated and use the original power supply for streaming sticks.

Watching live channels

Live streams are more sensitive to Wi-Fi instability than on-demand programmes. Open a live channel before an important event and check the audio, picture and account. If on-demand video works but live video freezes, test Ethernet or a stronger Wi-Fi signal.

Common problems

The app is missing

• Confirm the device model and year.
• Update the television software.
• Check that the account region is Australia.
• Use a supported external device if the TV is too old.

The app opens and closes

Restart the TV, free storage, update the app and reinstall it from the official store. Avoid factory resetting the television until simpler steps fail.

The video buffers

Use Ethernet, move closer to the router, select 5 GHz Wi-Fi and pause downloads. Read our Australian buffering guide.

Audio is delayed

Test the TV speakers. Bluetooth devices can add latency. Use an HDMI soundbar or adjust the TV audio delay only after isolating the cause.

Using SBS On Demand on mobile and browser

The service is available on supported phones, tablets and browsers. Keep the mobile app signed in as a backup for major events. If browser playback fails, update the browser and allow protected media and necessary cookies.

Account and privacy tips

• Use a unique password.
• Do not share one-time codes.
• Sign out before selling a television.
• Review registered devices where available.
• Install only official apps.

Related Australian guides

• World Cup 2026 Australia guide
• Best Australian Smart TV apps
• Fire TV Stick setup in Australia

Official sources

• SBS On Demand
• Supported devices
• SBS access help

Frequently asked questions