Regional Viewers in Three Markets Face Loss of Network 10 From July
WIN Television has announced that its program supply agreement with Network 10 for three regional markets will expire on June 30, 2026, potentially leaving viewers without access to the network and its secondary channels.
Markets Affected
The agreement covers the Mount Gambier and Riverland regions in South Australia, and the Griffith region in New South Wales. If a new deal is not reached, viewers in these areas will lose access to Network 10 and its associated channels from July 1.
"Viewers in these regions will lose access to Network 10 and its secondary channels if a new deal is not reached."
Statements from the Networks
A spokesperson for WIN confirmed that the program supply agreement with Network 10 for the three markets will end on June 30, 2026. The company has informed the Communications Minister and the Department of Communications of the situation.
A Network 10 spokesperson said that aerial transmission in the affected areas is outside their control, but noted that viewers can stream services online. The spokesperson expressed disappointment at WIN's decision and highlighted the disruption for regional viewers, particularly those with limited internet access. They called for government support for regional broadcasters.
"We are disappointed at WIN's decision and the disruption for regional viewers, especially those with limited internet access."
— Network 10 spokesperson
Recurring Issue for Regional Areas
This is not the first time these regions have faced losing free-to-air services due to expired broadcast agreements. Last year, the Seven Network was unavailable for four days during negotiations with WIN.
In Mildura, Victoria, Channel 10 is already unavailable after the shutdown of Mildura Digital Television, which was jointly owned by WIN and Seven West Media.
Industry Perspectives
Peter Mahoney, a regional media veteran with 40 years of experience, commented on the ongoing decline in regional media, citing staff reductions at local outlets.
Tony Pasin, MP for Barker, noted that WIN's business model is becoming harder to sustain due to reduced regional advertising and population. He drew parallels to challenges faced by regional airlines.
"WIN's business model is becoming harder to sustain due to reduced regional advertising and population."
— Tony Pasin, MP for Barker
Cameron McTernan, a media lecturer at Adelaide University, attributed the issue to online services drawing advertising revenue from traditional media. He said television faces a greater threat than in previous years and argued for better avenues of funding to make media more sustainable.
"Television faces a greater threat than in previous years. We need better avenues of funding to make media more sustainable."
— Cameron McTernan, media lecturer, Adelaide University