Question 1

What is the Language Services Review?

Accepted Answer

The Language Services Review is a process undertaken by SBS every five years, in line with the Australian Census, to examine SBS’s language offering. The Review ensures SBS’s language services reflect contemporary Australia and best serve our changing and diverse population. The Review considers which languages SBS services, as well as how those services are delivered—including the nature of the content, the platforms used and the timing of services.The Review considers factors such as the Australian Census data, public consultation feedback, audience listening habits, digital platform use, demographic trends and resourcing.

Question 2

The Process

Accepted Answer

The Language Services Review is a comprehensive process that begins with the Australian Census.The 2026 Australian Census occurred on Tuesday 11 August 2026.  Following the Census, the public is invited to provide feedback on the draft Selection Criteria during the public consultation period. The final Selection Criteria will then be developed and published on the SBS website before the Census data is released.The Census data, which will become available in June 2027, provides a rich snapshot of the nation. It will be considered alongside the final Selection Criteria to inform SBS’s Language Services Review. The results of the Language Services Review will be announced in September 2027 with any changes implemented from December 2027.

Question 3

Timeline

Accepted Answer

5 October - 13 November 2026: Public consultation to seek feedback on SBS’s draft Selection Criteria to be used in conjunction with 2026 Australian Census data, to determine which languages will be serviced by SBS Audio.&nbsp;May 2027: Final Selection Criteria published.&nbsp;June 2027: 2026 Australian Census data released.&nbsp;September 2027: Changes to SBS Audio services announced including languages to be serviced and how each language service will be delivered – e.g. via AM/FM, digital radio, digital television, online, social media, and/or podcast.&nbsp;December 2027: Revised SBS language services implemented from December 2027.&nbsp;

Question 4

Finalising our language selection criteria

Accepted Answer

The draft Selection Criteria will be available in the lead-up to the public consultation period in October.A six-week consultation process will be open from 5 October to 13 November 2026 to give communities and organisations the opportunity to provide feedback on the draft Selection Criteria.Feedback can be submitted through the Online Feedback Form.  All submissions received will be taken into consideration in finalising the new Selection Criteria.

Question 5

Finalising our language services offering

Accepted Answer

The 2026 Australian Census data will be considered with the final Selection Criteria to determine which languages will be serviced by SBS Audio from December 2027. SBS will determine when and how all language services will be delivered – e.g. via AM/FM, digital radio, digital television, online, social media and/or podcast. The revised services will best suit the needs of today’s Australia.

Question 6

To connect with SBS Audio anytime, anywhere:

Accepted Answer

Download the free SBS Radio App available now at the  and Analogue radio programs – Online live streaming and via free ad-supported streaming TV channels Podcasts available via the SBS Audio App,  or major podcast platforms&nbsp;Social media content on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram, with availability varying by language service.&nbsp;

Question 7

Contact Us

Accepted Answer

If you have any questions, please click on the frequently asked questions . If your question is not included, please email us

SBS Language Services Review

Welcome to the SBS Language Services Review website

Frequently Asked Questions

Resources and help

Any questions?