abciview: Watch ABC dramas, documentaries and live news

Introduction: Why abciview matters

abciview is the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s on-demand and streaming service, giving viewers flexible access to the broadcaster’s broadcast content. As audiences shift to online and mobile viewing, abciview’s role in delivering TV programs, original content and live news streams has become increasingly relevant for Australians seeking catch-up and live coverage from the ABC.

Main details: What abciview offers

On-demand access to ABC channels

abciview provides on-demand access to almost all the TV programs that are broadcast on the ABC’s linear channels. This includes content from ABC TV, ABC Family, ABC Kids, ABC Entertains and ABC News. Viewers can watch dramas, documentaries, entertainment, arts and comedy programs that would otherwise be available only via scheduled broadcast.

Original and exclusive programming

Beyond catch-up of broadcast shows, abciview also features original content and programs acquired exclusively for the platform. The service positions itself as a home for leading Australian drama, documentary, entertainment, arts and comedy, expanding the ABC’s reach beyond traditional television schedules.

Live streams and mobile availability

abciview offers simulcast live streams of ABC linear channels, enabling live viewing through the website and mobile apps. In late 2010, a live stream of ABC News was made available on the iview website and subsequently on iOS and Android apps. On 1 December 2015, a simulcast live stream of the main ABC TV channel was added to the iview website and to the iOS and Android apps, further broadening real-time access for viewers on multiple devices.

Conclusion: Significance and outlook for viewers

For Australian audiences, abciview consolidates the ABC’s broadcast output into a single, accessible platform for both on-demand and live viewing. By providing catch-up access to nearly all ABC programs, offering exclusive content and expanding live streaming on web and mobile, abciview supports changing viewing habits and ensures audiences can follow news, drama and entertainment when and where they choose. Continued availability on web and mobile apps suggests abciview will remain a central part of how Australians access ABC programming.