SBS turns 50: Tracing the journey from explaining the Medibank scheme to becoming a national voice

SBS began in 1975 as two ethnic radio stations - 2EA in Sydney and 3EA in Melbourne - some photos from the archives of SBS from the 1970s and 80s. Credit: SBS Media

1975 marked a turning point in global and Australian history — from the end of the Vietnam War and the genocide in Cambodia to the political events in Australia. During this period, a change was underway: Australia was moving toward multiculturalism. From this shift came SBS — a broadcaster that gave voice to the nation's expanding mix of cultures. On its 50th anniversary, we look back at the story of how SBS began.

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Published 4 June 2025 9:55am

By Peggy Giakoumelos

Presented by Itee Dewan

Source: SBS

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1975 marked a turning point in global and Australian history — from the end of the Vietnam War and the genocide in Cambodia to the political events in Australia. During this period, a change was underway: Australia was moving toward multiculturalism. From this shift came SBS — a broadcaster that gave voice to the nation's expanding mix of cultures. On its 50th anniversary, we look back at the story of how SBS began.

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