Archives: Media Releases

WATCH LIVE AND FREE FROM TONIGHT
AT 7.00PM ON CHANNEL 9HD & 9NOW

The 2026 NRL Finals Series explodes into action tonight at 7.00pm, live and free on Channel 9HD and 9Now.

With the premiership race wide open, the road to glory starts with four intriguing match-ups this weekend.

At Allianz Stadium tonight, the Rabbitohs play the Knights in a sudden-death showdown, with the Knights chasing their first title since 2001, while the Rabbitohs charge into the Finals with Latrell Mitchell at full steam. Inspired by teammate Jai Arrow, South Sydney will be determined to keep their premiership dream alive.

Saturday brings a blockbuster double-header. First the Warriors clash with the Dolphins in Auckland, with the Dolphins making history in their first-ever NRL Finals Series. While the loser survives for another week, it’s win or go home in the next game when the Sharks and Cowboys meet under the lights at Allianz Stadium in another elimination battle.

Then on Sunday, the 2026 Minor Premiers, the juggernaut Panthers, face a Roosters side led by skipper James Tedesco, Daly Cherry-Evans and Mark Nawaqanitawase, all out to take down the minor premiers. But the Panthers still have plenty to prove, with Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo leading the way together as they look to show the world the Panthers dynasty is far from over.

Nine’s Wide World of Sports will bring fans every hit, try and defining moment of the 2026 NRL Finals Series, backed by insight and analysis from a team of the game’s biggest names.

Hosted by James Bracey, the expert team features rugby league Immortal Andrew Johns, premiership winners Brad Fittler, Johnathan Thurston, Billy Slater, Cameron Smith, Phil Gould, Darren Lockyer, Sam Thaiday and Paul Gallen, alongside Danika Mason, Emma Lawrence, Marlee Silva, and international representatives Allana Ferguson and Ruan Sims.

Calling all the action live will be Mathew Thompson, Brenton Speed and Peter Psaltis.

Phil Gould said:

“This year’s finals series has genuine title contenders from top to bottom. The Panthers, arguably the benchmark team of this NRL era, will chase a fifth premiership in six years, while the Warriors carry the weight and passion of an entire nation behind them. Throw in a Roosters side with a long history of finals appearances, and you’ve got a top four who know exactly what it takes to go deep in September.
“What makes this series special is the X-factor the Dolphins bring as first-time finalists — a team with nothing to lose and everything to gain, capable of upsetting the more fancied sides. With that kind of unpredictability mixed in among the genuine premiership contenders, every game across these four weeks is must-watch, building to what should be an outstanding Grand Final at Accor Stadium on October 4.”

The 9Network is the only place to watch every game of the 2026 NRL Finals Series live and free, on Channel 9HD and 9Now, culminating in exclusive coverage of the NRL Grand Final.

NRL ON NINE – BROADCAST SCHEDULE:

FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTY – RABBITOHS v KNIGHTS
Friday September 11
7.00pm AEST – Live and free on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now

SATURDAY AFTERNOON FOOTY – WARRIORS V DOLPHINS
Saturday September 12
3.00pm AEST– Live and free on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now

SATURDAY NIGHT FOOTY – SHARKS V COWBOYS
Saturday September 12
7.00pm AEST– Live and free on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now

SUNDAY FOOTY SHOW
Sunday September 13 
11.00am AEST – Live and free on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now

SUNDAY AFTERNOON FOOTY – PANTHERS V ROOSTERS
Sunday September 13
3.30pm AEST – Live and free on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now

100% FOOTY
Monday September 14
8.40pm AEST – Live and free on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now

WATCH EVERY GAME OF THE 2026 NRL FINALS SERIES
LIVE AND FREE ON CHANNEL 9HD & 9NOW

Friday 11 September, 2026

Nine Entertainment (Nine) today announced it has extended its exclusive Australian streaming and broadcast rights for the Premier League until the end of the 2033/34 season, in a major multi-year agreement. 

Under the agreement, Nine retains exclusive Australian streaming and broadcast rights to deliver the league’s biggest moments. Through Stan Sport, fans will have access to every Premier League match, live and exclusive. With two seasons still remaining on the current deal, the extension reflects the strength of Nine’s partnership with the Premier League. 

Nine Entertainment CEO Matt Stanton said:

“Football is the ultimate global game, followed with remarkable intensity by millions of fans across Australia. Bringing the Premier League to Stan has been a genuine game-changer for our business, and we are very pleased to be extending the partnership for a further six years. 
“As the sole rights holder in Australia, Nine is uniquely placed to activate our assets across streaming and broadcast, publishing and outdoor to promote awareness of Premier League, deepen fan engagement, and tell the game’s stories across the entirety of the season. 
“This agreement further strengthens Nine’s premium sport offering and reflects Nine’s long-term strategy of investing in premium live sport and delivering the sporting moments that matter most to Australians.”

Nine Managing Director of Streaming & Broadcast, Amanda Laing, said:

“Extending this deal through to the 2033/34 season is an incredible milestone for Nine and a direct reflection of the strength of the partnership between Stan and the Premier League. When we brought the Premier League to Stan Sport, we set out to deliver an unmissable viewing experience for our subscribers, and the response has been remarkable. The Premier League rights have been one of the largest drivers of subscriptions in Stan Sport history and were a key contributor to our strong financial results in FY26.  
“The six-year extension cements Nine as the undisputed home of football in Australia, and reinforces Nine’s commitment to delivering the world’s best sport, news and entertainment across the country’s most comprehensive media network. With a world-class sporting calendar that includes the NRL and NRLW, State of Origin, Olympic Games, Australian Open, NBL and WNBL, Super Netball and the 2027 Netball World Cup, Rugby Union and the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia, Nine delivers an unrivalled level of scale and depth in sport coverage and sets the benchmark for sports broadcasting in Australia.
“Retaining the rights to the biggest football league in the world for another six years ensures football fans across the country continue to get the comprehensive, premium coverage they deserve, backed by the full power of Nine’s ecosystem.”

Premier League Chief Media Officer, Paul Molnar, said:

“We are delighted to extend our partnership with Stan for a further six seasons, ensuring fans across Australia can continue to enjoy every Premier League match live through to the end of the 2033/34 season. Stan has demonstrated a strong commitment to delivering high-quality coverage and bringing the Premier League closer to fans, supported by the reach and strength of the wider Nine network. Australia is important to the Premier League, with a large and passionate fanbase, and we look forward to working closely with Stan to build on this strong start and further grow engagement with the League in the years ahead.”

The 2026/27 Premier League season is now underway, with fans able to watch every match live and exclusive on Stan Sport, backed by world-class coverage, analysis and opinion from the biggest names in the game. 

And world-class football doesn’t stop at the Premier League. Stan Sport is the home of the world’s most prestigious club competitions, with every match of the UEFA Champions League from September 9, UEFA Europa League from September 17, and UEFA Conference League from October 16, alongside the Women’s Super League (WSL), featuring a host of our favourite Matildas stars, from September 5. The historic Emirates FA Cup also returns from January 9.

Thursday 10 September, 2026

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 17 AT 7.30PM ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW

In a milestone program celebrating 70 years of television, host Todd Woodbridge is opening the doors of the Tipping Point studio to three of the 9Network’s most famous on-screen duos.

In a special nostalgia-fuelled episode, they will go head to head with the Tipping Point machine to battle for a share of $40,000 for their chosen charities.

Getaway globe-trotting fan favourites Catriona Rowntree and Jules Lund bring their trademark adventure energy to the podium, playing for The Reach Foundation.

Sale of the Century game show pairing Nicky Buckley and Glenn Ridge reunite, bringing decades of fast-paced trivia experience to win for The Power in You Project.

And McLeod’s Daughters beloved stars Lisa Chappell and Bridie Carter step out of Drovers Run to take on the Tipping Point machine and play for Dolly’s Dream.

Expect quick wit, fond memories, high-stakes game play and nerve-wracking machine drops as our top trio of television favourites test their knowledge and ride their luck to raise money for worthy causes.

Tipping Point: 70 Years of TV goes to air Thursday, September 17, at 7.30pm on Channel 9 and 9Now.

Wednesday 9 September, 2026

Leading Digital Out of Home (DOOH) media company QMS has announced an exciting new partnership with the Los Angeles Rams, officially becoming the NFL franchise’s Outdoor Media Partner for their historic game debut in Australia.

The partnership comes as the Rams prepare to play the first-ever regular-season NFL game in Melbourne on Friday, 11 September, taking to the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) – the sporting and cultural heart of the city – as it is broadcast live to a global audience.

To build momentum for the Rams arrival, QMS is running a series of high-impact, dynamic creative executions across its premium Melbourne Digital Large Format network. Playing on local Melbourne pride and anticipation for America’s game on Australia’s biggest stage, the contextual billboards feature localised calls-to-action including:

• ‘The ‘G’ Shaking after a Touchdown? I’d like to see that.’
• ‘A Rams tailgate parked on the Yarra? I’d like to see that.’
• ‘No look pass from the MVP? I’d like to see that.’
• ‘A sack echoing around the ‘G? I’d like to see that.’
• ‘America’s game on Australia’s biggest stage? I’d like to see that.’

Extending the excitement beyond the screens, QMS will also host clients and partners at a private tailgate event featuring a special guest appearance by Rams Legend and two-time All-Pro running back, Todd Gurley II.

QMS Chief Sales Officer, Tim Murphy, said:

“We are thrilled to partner with a world-class sporting franchise like the Los Angeles Rams for what is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated international sporting events on the Australian calendar this year.
“Melbourne is world renowned for its legendary sports culture, and bringing the NFL to the MCG is an out of the ordinary milestone moment. Out of Home thrives on connecting audiences to culture and through our market-leading DOOH network, we are proud to bring the energy of the NFL to life and help welcome the Rams to our home turf.”

Los Angeles Rams VP, Head of International, Stephanie Cheng said:

“Partnering with QMS allows us to showcase the Los Angeles Rams brand to millions of Australian fans with unmatched scale and visual impact as we prepare for this game at the MCG. Australia has an incredibly passionate Rams fanbase, and together with QMS, we are excited to bring fans closer to the Rams and help build excitement for this historic week.”

Tuesday 8 September, 2026

Brisbane’s skyline exploded with colour on Saturday night for Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust, delivering another dazzling ratings performance and cementing itself as the highest rating Queensland produced program.

Signalling the official start of Brisbane Festival 2026, Queenslanders tuned in in droves to watch the spectacular fireworks show. Nine’s exclusive live broadcast once again captivated audiences across the state, claiming top honours for the evening.

Hosted by 9News Queensland presenters Melissa Downes and Joel Dry, the broadcast dominated prime-time viewing as the No. 1 program of the night in Brisbane with Total People and all key demographics. It had a local Total TV Reach of 342,000, a Total TV local average audience of 231,000, and a BVOD local audience of 32,000. It was also the highest rating program of last week in Brisbane.

Kylie Blucher, Managing Director of Nine Queensland & Director of Nine Olympic, Paralympic and Regional Partnerships, said:

“Riverfire remains an extraordinary highlight on the Queensland calendar, and we are immensely proud to bring this world-class spectacle into homes across the state. The impressive viewership reflects just how much local families treasure it as well.”

Viewers who missed the live event or wish to relive the excitement can stream Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust for free on 9Now.

Monday 7 September, 2026

OVER TWO MASSIVE NIGHTS,
70 YEARS OF TELEVISION CELEBRATES
THE MOMENTS THAT SHAPED A NATION

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, AND SEPTEMBER 16,
AT 8.45PM ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW

From Bruce Gyngell ushering in Australian TV with “Welcome to Television” on September 16, 1956, to laugh-out-loud comedy, unforgettable music moments and the live sporting victories that united a nation, 70 Years of Television will take viewers on a nostalgic journey through seven decades of Australian TV history.

Over two unmissable nights, Wednesday, September 9, and Wednesday, September 16, at 8.45pm on Channel 9 and 9Now, this landmark retrospective will feature interviews and archival footage to look back at the triumphs, scandals and defining screen moments that captured generations across variety, news, current affairs, sport, reality and drama.

Bringing together an all-star lineup of Australia’s biggest names and legendary personalities, 70 Years of Television includes Hamish Blake, Julia Morris, Tracy Grimshaw, David Koch, Kerri-Anne Kennerley, Patti Newton, Ray Martin, Catriona Rowntree, Sigrid Thornton and Ken Sutcliffe, who share their personal reflections and memories.

The special covers every corner of the TV landscape. Episode one charts the evolution of Australian television – from how “the box” became the centrepiece of the living room, to classic variety stars like Graham Kennedy and Bert Newton, and our distinct Aussie sense of humour that shone through in shows like The Comedy Company, Kath & Kim and Summer Heights High.

It revisits the music shows that soundtracked generations (Bandstand, Countdown, MTV and Rage), reflects on the trusted news anchors who guided us through major historical moments, dives into the birth of breakfast television and the “Morning Wars”, and relives the fabulous sporting victories – like Cathy Freeman’s historic 400m gold medal at the Sydney Olympics – that brought the entire country together.

The celebration continues in episode two, showcasing the full spectrum of Australia’s most loved programs that defined our screen culture. It looks back at the golden age of kids TV – from nostalgic classics like Mr Squiggle and Agro, to the global phenomenon of Bluey, alongside variety favourites like Hey Hey It’s Saturday and the evolution of the game show, from Sale of the Century to Tipping Point.

It honours the legacy of hard-hitting current affairs built on trust and accountability, alongside the classic advertising jingles we still can’t stop quoting. Viewers will also revisit the lifestyle staples that transformed our homes (Changing Rooms, Backyard Blitz), the explosive reality TV clashes and format fusions we couldn’t look away from (Big Brother, The Block, MAFS), and the timeless dramas like Blue Heelers and McLeod’s Daughters that won our hearts.

70 Years of Television is a production by Nine’s Long-form Unit.

70 YEARS OF TELEVISION
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, AND SEPTEMBER 16,
AT 8.45PM ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW

Wednesday 2 September, 2026

The countdown to the 2026-27 Hungry Jack’s NBL season is officially on, with the 9Network delivering all 10 matches of the 2026 CODE Sports NBL Blitz live and free to basketball fans across Australia on 9Now.

Tipping off from September 2 to 6 in Bendigo, the pre-season tournament marks the first look at revamped rosters for all 10 NBL teams, including NBA legend Joe Ingles making his highly anticipated return to play in Australia.

This year’s Blitz launches Nine’s major new multi-platform rights partnership with the NBL, bringing the league back to Nine screens for the first time since the 2018-19 season. Every match will be available live and free alongside highlights and mini-games, making 9Now the ultimate digital destination for Australian basketball.

NBL Group CEO, David Stevenson, said:

“The NBL is excited to tip off its new partnership with Nine at the 2026 NBL Blitz in Bendigo. The Blitz continues to grow each year, and our new partnership with Nine will elevate the tournament, broadcasting all 10 matches into more homes than ever.
“Following a record-breaking season, this partnership with Nine is about building on momentum and making our game more accessible. Nine’s scale and storytelling capability will help to create new fans and amplify the visibility of our clubs and players.”

Nine’s Director of Sport, Brent Williams, said:

“Nine is thrilled to be launching our NBL partnership with the 2026 NBL Blitz. It’s an exciting format that continues to grow and engage a new generation of fans, NBL diehards and sports lovers in general. 
“It provides a great opportunity to showcase these phenomenal athletes and tell their stories, with every match available live and free across the country.”

Last year, the League enjoyed significant growth across attendance and broadcast audiences, breaking its all-time attendance record with 1,231,796 fans attending games.

Live game streaming grew by 21 per cent season-on-season, marking back-to-back years of 20 per cent growth, while average audiences on free-to-air television increased by 18 per cent compared with the previous season. 

The action tips off in Bendigo on Wednesday, September 2, when the Cairns Taipans clash with the Perth Wildcats.

2026 CODE SPORTS NBL BLITZ SCHEDULE:

Wednesday, September 2
Cairns Taipans vs Perth Wildcats                                   5.30pm AEST LIVE and FREE on 9Now
Sydney Kings vs South East Melbourne Phoenix          8.00pm AEST LIVE and FREE on 9Now

Thursday, September 3
Brisbane Bullets vs Tasmania JackJumpers                   5.30pm AEST LIVE and FREE on 9Now
Illawarra Hawks vs Adelaide 36ers                                 8.00pm AEST LIVE and FREE on 9Now

Friday, September 4
New Zealand Breakers vs Sydney Kings                        5.30pm AEST LIVE and FREE on 9Now
Perth Wildcasts vs Melbourne United                             8.00pm AEST LIVE and FREE on 9Now

Saturday, September 5
South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Brisbane Bullets       5.30pm AEST LIVE and FREE on 9Now
Adelaide 36ers vs Cairns Taipans                                   8.00pm AEST LIVE and FREE on 9Now

Sunday, September 6
Melbourne United vs Illawarra Hawks                             5.30pm AEST LIVE and FREE on 9Now
Tasmania JackJumpers vs New Zealand Breakers         8.00pm AEST LIVE and FREE on 9Now

STREAM THE 2026 NBL BLITZ LIVE AND FREE
FROM WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, ON 9NOW

Tuesday 1 September, 2026

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, FROM 6.00PM AEST
LIVE ON CHANNEL 9 & 9NOW

Brisbane’s skyline will light up when Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust dazzles the city following a special 9News Queensland bulletin this Saturday, September 5, from 6.00pm AEST, exclusively on Channel 9 and 9Now.

Marking a spectacular opening of the Brisbane Festival 2026, the river city will burst with colour on Saturday night. As crowds flock to vantage points along the Brisbane River, Queenslanders can secure front-row seats to every breathtaking explosion exclusively on Channel 9 and 9Now.

9News Queensland’s leading duo of presenters, Melissa Downes and Joel Dry, return to host the exclusive broadcast. Live from the top of Flight Centre HQ, they will guide viewers through every spark of the main event, bringing the magic of Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust into homes across the state.

Joel Dry said:

“Returning to host Riverfire alongside Melissa is a highlight of the year. There is incredible electricity in Brisbane on the night. You can practically feel the city buzzing, and we’ll share that energy with everyone watching at home.”

Melissa Downes added:

“Riverfire just gets better and better. And after 16 years of hosting this fabulous event, the sight of the Brisbane skyline coming to life never ceases to amaze me. It is such a privilege to showcase our beautiful city at its most dazzling.”

Adding to the fun, Luke Bradnam will deliver 9News Queensland’s weather forecast live from the ultimate riverside hangout, Howard Smith Wharves. He’ll be joined for the fireworks display by 16 lucky Queenslanders who’ve scored the best seat in the house, soaking up the electric atmosphere from the exclusive Australian Retirement Trust ‘Monster Seats’ competition.

Queenslanders statewide won’t miss a single spark or explosion, as Nine’s exclusive broadcast ensures an uninterrupted, breathtaking experience for everyone from the comfort of their own home.

Catch the sparks from Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust this Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 6.00pm AEST exclusively on Channel 9 and 9Now.  

Tuesday 1 September, 2026

After seven years and more than 900 flights, Today weather presenter Tim Davies will read his last forecast on Friday 18 September 2026. 

Since joining the show in 2019, Tim has brought energy and enthusiasm to communities and audiences throughout Australia and around the world. He has skydived, bungee jumped, abseiled off some of the most thrilling and death-defying attractions, gone swimming with sharks and crocodiles, raced performance vehicles, and performed acrobatics all live on air. 

Director of Morning Television, Steven Burling, said:

“Tim is a much loved member of the Today hosting family and he leaves enormous shoes to fill. During his time, he’s given a platform to small towns and communities, showcasing their people and causes to a national audience, and that will leave a lasting impact.
“We are fully supportive of Tim laying down some roots after seven years of living out of a suitcase. I’d like to thank Tim for all he’s contributed to the show. I know the team and the audience will greatly miss him.”

Tim Davies said:

“People always tell me I’ve got the best job in TV and they’re not wrong. Working alongside the best broadcasters, travelling to new destinations daily and showcasing incredible Aussies is a privilege. 
“Not all journos get to deliver good news, good vibes and a smile with each story, so having achieved all that and so much more – this seems like the right time to step back, enjoy a sleep in, take a break without a camera crew and prepare for my next adventure.”

An announcement on Tim’s replacement will be made soon.

Friday 28 August, 2026

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, AT 8.45PM ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW

Marking the 20-year anniversary of when the world lost one of its most passionate wildlife conservationists, a documentary special, Steve Irwin: A Wild Life, will premiere on Wednesday, September 2, at 8.45pm on Channel 9 and 9Now.

Featuring never-before-seen footage from a 2002 60 Minutes interview conducted by Charles Wooley and exclusive interviews with Steve’s inner circle, the special presents a deeply personal, unfiltered exploration of Steve Irwin’s remarkable journey, enduring passion and public legacy.

Steve’s longtime cameraman Justin Lyons speaks about witnessing his death, sharing more detail than ever in his first documentary interview. The special brings together key figures from Irwin’s life, including the TV producer and manager John Stainton who discovered his footage and launched his global career; right-hand wildlife teammate Brian “Briano” Coulter; high school friend Chris White; former Animal Planet head Clark Bunting; world champion surfer, friend and fan Kelly Slater; and country music legend and friend John Williamson. 

Steve Irwin: A Wild Life traces Irwin’s journey from catching wild crocodiles in Queensland alongside his father Bob to building Australia Zoo and achieving unscripted global stardom. It is a candid look at his pioneering “conservation through entertainment” mission, the intense public scrutiny he faced, and the global legacy carried on by his family today. 

Steve Irwin: A Wild Life is produced by 60 Minutes for the 9Network. 

STEVE IRWIN: A WILD LIFE
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, AT 8.45PM
ON CHANNEL 9 & 9NOW

Wednesday 26 August, 2026