The Federal election was called on 28 March 2025. As this website is hosted by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, the site will only be updated with material in line with the Caretaker Conventions. Please note that the content of this site relates to the Australian Government’s existing policy.

SBS Western Sydney

The Australian Government is providing funding to the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) to develop a fully costed business case for the establishment of an SBS television and radio production hub and talent incubator in Western Sydney.

The new production hub plans to feature a TV studio able to host live audiences, radio/podcasting booths, collaboration spaces for talent incubation, and a modest workspace to support production output.

Subject to the completion of the business case, once established, this facility will enable SBS to deliver approximately 360 hours per year of new first run Australian screen content and 1,440 hours per year of original audio and podcast content—including multilingual content.

SBS in Western Sydney will also:

  • Create opportunities for local, skilled production jobs in Western Sydney for its increasing number of highly skilled, qualified and culturally diverse workers;
  • Provide a participation pathway for young people, including multicultural, multilingual and First Nations youth, pursuing careers in the arts and media; and
  • Further improve participation by Western Sydney communities in one of Australia's most trusted news media organisation.

SBS will commence work in early 2025 to explore options for the Western Sydney production hub, including seeking expressions of interest from the local market for potential sites which could house the production hub.

SBS will work closely with the department and engage with local councils, education institutions, business and economic development bodies in Western Sydney in progressing the project.

SBS Relocation Feasibility Study

In April 2023, the Government commissioned a feasibility study into a possible relocation of the SBS from its Artarmon headquarters in New South Wales to Western Sydney, alongside the provision of a multi-purpose space for content creation and public use.

The Steering Committee appointed to oversee the feasibility study delivered its initial report to the Minister and the Minister sought the views of the SBS Board in May 2024. In July 2024, the Minister received the SBS Board's response to the initial report.

The Australian Government has considered the outcomes of the report and given the significant costs involved in a full relocation, has decided not to pursue this option.

More information