Nine today announces it has been appointed by Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) to act as the exclusive sales partner for advertising on the Max streaming service in Australia.
Launching on 31 March, Max will be the home of WBD’s premium slate of content, including HBO and Max Originals such as The Last of Us, The White Lotus and And Just Like That…, as well as hit Warner Bros. films and real-life content from Discovery, HGTV, ID and more.
Nine’s sales team has been appointed as Max’s exclusive sales partner to commercially maximise its ad-supported Basic With Ads tier.
Utilising Nine’s advanced tech systems, Max will be a key component of Nine’s digital video proposition to advertisers, represented by Nine Sales across the country.
When combined with 9Now and Stan Sport, Nine’s representation of WBD creates a significant scale of audience across leading Subscription Video On Demand (SVOD) and Broadcast Video On Demand (BVOD) categories.
Trading on Max’s extensive portfolio of world-class content, this inventory will form part of Nine’s premium revenue strategy driven by Powered (premium integrated sales and strategy) while Nine’s Centre of Digital Excellence (Digital solutions, data, product and programmatic) will form the foundation of the sales strategy.
The relationship will allow Nine to offer agencies and clients innovative and streamlined ad solutions across both SVOD and BVOD platforms, ultimately delivering better business results for advertisers.
WBD’s GM Australia and New Zealand, Michael Brooks, said: “This is the first time WBD’s premium slate of content has existed in one place in Australia. Launching Max with an ad-supported tier creates a compelling offer for viewers and advertisers alike, while partnering with Nine allows us to tap into their deep experience, strong relationships and proven capabilities.”
Nine’s Acting Chief Sales Officer, Matt James, said: “The combination of Max’s amazing content and world-leading advertising products with Nine’s local expertise, sales infrastructure and scale is a unique opportunity for clients in this country. This relationship with WBD will accelerate our strategy into the digital video market and offer clients better return on investment.”
For further information, please contact: Adrian Motte Senior Communications Manager – Publishing & Trade amotte@nine.com.au
Brisbane’s 4BC has seen a huge spike in digital streaming, with session starts up 79% year-on-year in the past week. The increase came as Queenslanders turned to the station for critical updates and reliable information during Cyclone Alfred.
Total listening hours (TLH) for 4BC also jumped 45% compared to the same period last year, while cumulative audience spiked 54% as listeners stayed connected through the storm’s impact, highlighting the vital role of live and local news coverage in times of crisis.
4BC Station Manager, Siobhain McDonnell said the team worked tirelessly to keep listeners informed as the situation unfolded.
“When extreme weather hits, radio is more than just a source of news – it’s a lifeline. Our team at 4BC was committed to delivering accurate and timely updates to support the Brisbane community through Cyclone Alfred. This surge in streaming numbers reflects the trust our listeners place in us, and we’re very grateful for their support.” McDonnell said.
4BC was the only station in Brisbane providing dedicated emergency broadcasts 24 hours a day from Thursday through until Monday night.
“Our presenters, producers, newsroom staff and audio engineers have worked around the clock to provide the latest information while also giving people a sense of connection during a really tough time. I’m so proud of them and I want to thank them for everything they’ve done”, said McDonnell.
As Queensland continues to recover, 4BC remains committed to keeping Brisbane informed and connected with the latest news and community support updates.
13 March 2025: Nine Entertainment Co. (ASX: NEC) today announces the appointment of Matthew Stanton as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, effective immediately.
The Nine Board confirmed Mr Stanton’s appointment after a comprehensive international search process involving a high-calibre field of candidates.
An experienced commercial CEO, Mr Stanton has a strong track record of leading transformation programs across the media, food and beverage and retail sectors. Previously he was Chief Executive Officer of Barambah Organics, Chief Transformation Officer at Woolworths, and Chief Executive Officer of Bauer Media (now Are Media). After joining Nine as Chief Strategy Officer in 2022, Mr Stanton has been Acting Chief Executive Officer since October 2024.
During his time as Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr Stanton has reset Nine’s operating model, refreshed the Executive Team and accelerated the strategic and cultural organisation-wide reform programs underway at Nine.
Nine Chair Catherine West said “The Board is delighted to confirm Matt as the Nine CEO. Following a thorough and competitive recruitment process, Matt was clearly the best credentialled leader to maintain the momentum on our strategic and cultural transformation. He has done an outstanding job as Acting CEO.
“Matt’s mix of strategic and commercial acumen, transformation and media experience, strong values, and an open and collaborative approach to leadership, make him the right person to lead Nine. After developing the Group strategy, Matt has a deep understanding of Nine, our priorities, culture and people and has earned the respect of the senior leadership, the broader workforce, the market and the Board.”
Nine Chief Executive Officer Matthew Stanton said “It’s an honour and a privilege to lead the talented and dedicated team at Nine. Nine is a great Australian company that plays a vital role in the national conversation. We have an exciting future, underpinned by the best people and assets in the media sector. We have moved at pace in recent months to strengthen the Group, and I’ve been buoyed by the buy-in from people across the company as we progress our ambitious plans to reset and grow the business. I am committed to continuing to reform and strengthen Nine in the interests of all shareholders and our people. “
Authorised for release by the Company Secretary of Nine
For further information, please contact: Nola Hodgson Head of Investor Relations nhodgson@nine.com.au
Paddle Australia together with the International Canoe Federation (ICF) is proud to announce Nine as the official broadcast partner for the highly anticipated 2025 ICF Slalom World Championships, to be held at Penrith Whitewater Stadium from 29 September to 4 October 2025.
More Aussie fans will be given the opportunity to experience a home World Championships down under thanks to the 9Network’s broadcast that will feature more than 30 hours of live and free on Channel 9 or to stream 9Now.
It will be an action packed six days of racing, with medals to be raced for and awarded on every day of competition and available for fans to watch on the 9Network.
It has been 25 years since the Penrith Whitewater Stadium first opened its doors to host the Olympic Games, with the legacy venue to welcome world’s best athletes back down under.
Olympic gold medalist Jessica Fox OAMsaid: “It’s super exciting to have Nine’s Wide World of Sports confirmed, supporting our sport and promoting our sport, showcasing all our amazing Aussie athletes and the international athletes that are going to come out.
“Nine did an amazing job during the Paris Olympics, so it’s great to have that continuity and to keep that relationship going. I’m really looking forward to it!”
Nine Wide World of Sports Head of Sports Partnerships and Strategy, Simon Fordham, said: “We’re excited to bring the ICF Slalom World Championships to the Wide World of Sports. Jess and Noemie Fox captured the hearts of all Australians winning Gold in Paris and for them to headline this home event with the best paddlers in the world will be enormous for all sports fans.
“Within NRL Grand Final week we will broadcast 31 hours of live and free coverage on Channel 9 and 9Now of the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships. This is an exciting acquisition for our platforms and one of the first steps on the road to the LA Olympics in 2028.”
Paddle Australia CEO, Kim Crane, said: “We are thrilled to partner with the 9Network to be able to provide more Australians the opportunity to experience the best our sport has to offer as well as reach new fans.
“We saw the incredible work the Wide World of Sports did during the Paris Olympic Games broadcast to provide fans with unparalleled access and we look forward to building on that great success for the ICF Slalom World Championships, Sydney 2025.
“Our goal is to showcase the world’s best competing downunder, as well as inspire a new generation to get involved in paddle sports,” she said.
ICF President Thomas Konietzkosaid: “On the 9Network broadcast partnership for the Australian market: “To have one of the top networks in Australia – Channel 9 and 9Now – broadcast the 2025 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships is great news.
“It shows the popularity of our sport Down Under after the incredible Paris 2024 Olympic Games. With the best athletes set to compete in Penrith, we hope more fans, especially youngsters, get a taste of our superb sport.”
The ICF Slalom World Championships will attract the world’s top canoe athletes as they battle it out for supremacy in what is set to be an unforgettable sporting spectacle.
Event Details:
Dates: 29 September – 4 October 2025
Location: Penrith Whitewater Stadium, Sydney, Australia
Broadcast: 31 hours of live and free coverage across Nine’s FTA channels and BVOD platform 9Now.
For more information about the ICF Slalom World Championships visit www.sydney2025.com
9Podcasts has just dropped The Pay Off with Sylvia Jeffreys – a fresh, no-nonsense podcast tackling the money matters that matter most to young Australians. From cracking the code on saving for your first home to smart investing, managing debt, and everyday budgeting, this weekly series delivers expert insights with real-world relevance.
You can catch it wherever you get your podcasts – Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and even in video format on 9Now. And to kick things off, the first two episodes feature none other than Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, sharing their takes on Australia’s financial landscape. Stream them now and start making your money work smarter.
Sylvia Jeffreys said: “Young Australians are facing increasingly high hurdles to financial security. The goal posts are shifting and traditional milestones look more like a fantasy than a dream. As a journalist, I hope to explore this generational wealth divide while also extracting knowledge, experience and practical advice from the smartest people in the room.”
Nine’s Head of Podcasts, Del Fordham said: “This podcast brings together the best of Nine – audio, video, the written word and the fantastic pool of talent available throughout the company. Sylvia is a natural in the podcasting space, and the episodes publishing today and in coming weeks are an indication of the level the team are aiming for week to week.”
Launch sponsors for The Pay Off with Sylvia Jeffreys are Unisuper and Belong.
The Dolphins and Knights under Thursday night lights, Nathan Cleary and the Panthers at their new home on Friday and the rest of the west on Sunday in Eels v Tigers, will head up NRL Round 2 on Channel 9 and 9Now.
Live and free from Thursday, March 13 at 7.30pm AEDT, The Knights fortress in Newcastle hosts Thursday Night Footy when the Dolphins come knocking for their first victory of the season. Revenge is also on their minds for being denied a finals spot at the same site in the final round of 2024.
You can take your pick of the tasty individual match ups across the park. Freakish fullbacks Kalyn Ponga and Hamiso Tabui-Fidow, twin brothers Jacob and Daniel Saifiti, and star centres Bradman Best and Herbie Farnworth.
On Friday Night Footy the battlelines will be drawn at CommBank Stadium in the middle of Sydney where the NRL’s giants of the East, the Sydney Roosters, meet the giants of the West, the Penrith Panthers.
Since their last premiership victory in 2019, the Roosters have been winless against the Panthers when they look to the leadership of energetic captain James Tedesco to show them some hope for their 2025 season. Fronted by Nathan Cleary, the men in black are back after an opening round win in Las Vegas and have set their sights on kicking off their two-year home ground stay at CommBank with an emphatic victory.
Sunday Arvo Footy pits the Eels against the Wests Tigers. Both teams are keen to get off the mark and secure their first win of the season, but this task will lay in the hands of the two big name playmakers, Tigers new signing Jarome Luai and Dylan Brown of the Eels.
Opposite ends of the spectrum have been seen in their last two matchups. The Eels piled on 60 points in the final round of the 2024 season to hand the Tigers the wooden spoon, while the Tigers won a field goal thriller in an Easter Monday classic.
In commentary exclusively for Nine’s Wide World of Sports is the best in the business. Hosted by James Bracey and Danika Mason, the expert commentary line up for 2025 features rugby league Immortal Andrew Johns and fellow premiership winners Cameron Smith, Billy Slater, Phil Gould, Johnathan Thurston, Brad Fittler, Paul Gallen, Darren Lockyer, Millie Elliott and Sam Thaiday. Plus women’s internationals Ruan Sims and Allana Ferguson, sideline reporters Marlee Silva and Emma Lawrence, with Lawrence to also host the Sunday Footy Show.
This unrivalled lineup of commentators, boasting 52 Grand Final appearances as players and coaches combined, will provide viewers with insight and analysis all the way through the 2025 season with exclusive access into the dressing sheds after the game.
Calling the live action will be Mat Thompson, Brenton Speed and Peter Psaltis.
BROADCAST SCHEDULE: NRL ROUND 2 ON NINE
Thursday, March 13
THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL – KNIGHTS v DOLPHINS
Sydney 7.30pm on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now Brisbane 6.30pm on 9GemHD, 7.00pm on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now Melbourne 7.30pm on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now Adelaide 7.00pm on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now Perth 4.30pm on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Friday, March 14
FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTY – PANTHERS v ROOSTERS
Sydney 7.30pm on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now Brisbane 6.30pm on 9GemHD, 7.00pm on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now Melbourne 7.30pm LIVE and FREE on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now Adelaide 7.00pm LIVE and FREE on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now Perth 4.30pm LIVE and FREE on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Sunday, March 15
WIDE WORLD OF SPORTS – This Week: Roz Kelly, Mark Taylor, John Millman and Chloe Dalton. Sydney / Brisbane – 10.00am on Channel 9. Melbourne / Adelaide / Perth 12.00pm on Channel 9
THE SUNDAY FOOTY SHOW – Billy Slater, Andrew Johns, Brad Fittler and new host Emma Lawrence. Sydney/Brisbane 11.00am on Channel 9 Melbourne 11.00am/ Adelaide and Perth 10.30am on 9Gem
SUNDAY ARVO FOOTY – STORM v EELS
Sydney 3.00pm on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now Brisbane 3.00pm on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now Melbourne 3.00pm on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now Adelaide 2.30pm on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now Perth 12.00pm on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Monday, March 17
100% FOOTY – 9.00pm on Channel 9 and 9Now in Sydney/Brisbane, following Married At First Sight.
Phil Gould and Paul Gallen are joined by the most capped Queensland Maroons player of all-time, Cameron Smith to weigh in on the big issues. Host James Bracey will steer the ship, while 9News rugby league reporters Danny Weidler and Michael Chammas bring the latest breaking news each week.
NRL ON NINE DIGITAL THIS WEEK:AVAILABLE ON 9NOW AND YOUTUBE
Marlee and Me – Will Warbrick: One of the most exciting rising stars in the NRL. Hailing from New Zealand, Warbrick comes from a proud Māori background and first made his mark in rugby sevens, winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics. His transition to rugby league with the Melbourne Storm has been nothing short of impressive, showcasing his athleticism, strength, and natural try-scoring ability. With a unique journey across two codes, Will brings a fresh perspective to the game and continues to grow as a key player in the NRL.
NRL ROUND 2 2025 FROM THURSDAY MARCH 13 AT 7.30PM AEDT LIVE AND FREE ON CHANNEL 9HD AND 9NOW
Nine Radio and the AFL have agreed to terms on a new three-year media rights agreement, further cementing 3AW’s position as the home of football in Melbourne.
This agreement continues a 70-year partnership between the AFL and Melbourne’s preeminent radio station, 3AW.
As part of the deal, 3AW will deliver more AFL coverage than ever before, including five live broadcasts:
Thursday nights – new to 3AW
Friday nights
Two games on Saturday
One game on Sunday
In a major boost for women’s football, 3AW is expanding its AFLW coverage with Saturday night games, the AFLW Grand Final, and the appointment of radio’s first-ever dedicated AFLW reporter, Laura Spurway.
Fans will also benefit from the return of 3AW’s award-winning call to the AFL app, ensuring they can tune in anytime, anywhere.
Additionally, for the first time, 3AW’s live AFL coverage will be available via pop-up streams on Sydney’s number one station app, 2GB, and Brisbane’s number one talk station app, 4BC – bringing the game’s best commentary team to even more listeners.
Stephen Beers, 3AW Station Manager, said:“We are excited to have the best commentary team continue 3AW’s long-standing partnership with the AFL. Our team features the biggest names in the game, collectively boasting 2,405 games, 2,740 goals, 20 Premierships, four Coleman Medals, two Brownlow Medals, and two Norm Smith Medals.
“We are also proud to lead the way in supporting AFLW, with the appointment of Laura Spurway as radio’s first dedicated AFLW reporter.
“Five games a week, all the stories throughout the week – on-air, online, and on the app. 3AW is football!”
For further information, please contact: Caitlin Lynch Senior Communications Manager, Nine clynch@nine.com.au
Get ready for the weird and wonderful world of footy every Wednesday night of the NRL season, when Freddy and The Eighth launches on Channel 9 and 9Now this Wednesday, March 12.
Hosted by Danika Mason, viewers will get a a look through the quirky, weird and wonderful lens of two of the biggest characters in the game – the Eighth rugby league Immortal, Andrew “Joey” Johns, and the most capped NSW State of Origin player in history, Brad “Freddy” Fittler when Freddy and The Eighth is available to watch on Channel 9 at 10.00pm in Sydney and Brisbane, and nationally on 9Now.
Fittler said: “When I was told of F8 was going onto Channel 9, I didn’t know whether to cheer, laugh or cry. All I could think about was the world seeing Joey’s toes. I’m not sure if there’s any dress regulations as of yet. But one thing I will guarantee is spending an hour with Joey and Danika is a good time and we all love footy. Strap yourself in.”
FREDDY AND THE EIGHTH WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12 FROM 10.00PM IN SYDNEY AND BRISBANE WATCH ON CHANNEL 9, STREAM ON 9NOW
Sydney’s 2GB and Brisbane’s 4BC are set for another huge season of NRL action, with the iconic Continuous Call Team returning for their 39th year on air.
The 2025 coverage kicked off in style last weekend, broadcasting live from Las Vegas as the NRL season got underway. As always, fans can expect expert analysis, entertaining commentary, and the passion that has made the Continuous Call Team a listener favourite for decades.
Comprehensive Coverage Across the Weekend
Listeners can catch all the action across 2GB, 4BC, and network stations at the following times:
Fridays: 7:00pm–11:00pm (including full game call of the 8:00pm match)
Saturdays: 1:00pm–10:00pm (including full game calls of the 5:30pm and 7:35pm matches)
Sundays: 1:00pm–6:00pm (including full game call of the 4:00pm match)
The Continuous Call Team will also bring footy fans comprehensive coverage of every State of Origin and NRL and NRLW Finals matches.
A Star-Studded Line-Up for 2025
The Continuous Call Team welcomes a new addition in 2025, with one of rugby league’s most popular personalities, Mark Geyer OAM joining the roster. Geyer will appear alongside returning fan favourites Paul Gallen, Darryl Brohman, Mark Riddell, Josh Morris, Neil Breen, Allana Ferguson, and Jamie Soward.
Mark Levy continues as host and lead commentator for Friday nights and Saturday afternoons, with Mathew Thompson and Chris Warren returning to the commentary line-up.
In another exciting addition, Gavin Pitchford joins the team in 2025 as the Sunday afternoon host.
Nine Radio’s National Partnerships and Special Events Manager, Luke Davis said: “We are so excited to be back for another season of fun, frivolity and footy with the Continuous Call Team! It’s great to welcome in a couple of new voices alongside our much-loved team veterans as we bring Australia’s best rugby league coverage to our loyal listeners and partners. Our 39th year on air is shaping up as the best yet!”
With unmatched coverage and an all-star line-up, the Continuous Call Team remains the go-to destination for rugby league fans throughout the NRL season. Tune in on 2GB, 4BC, and network stations for every big moment.
For further information, please contact: Caitlin Lynch Senior Communications Manager, Nine clynch@nine.com.au
Melbourne’s leading station 3AW is set to deliver another season of unmatched AFL coverage in 2025. Returning to the commentary box are some of the game’s most respected voices and biggest names to deliver live expert analysis, play-by-play coverage, and in-depth discussions for footy fans.
The 3AW AFL 2025 line-up includes:
Thursday Night Football:Jimmy Bartel and Matthew Richardson, with callers Anthony Hudson and Bruce Eva.
Friday Night Football:Jimmy Bartel and Matthew Lloyd, with callers Tim Lane and Matt Granland.
Saturday Footy Preview:Tim Lane, Caroline Wilson, and Leigh Matthews set the stage for the day’s action.
Saturday Early Game:Leigh Matthews and Joel Selwood, with callers Bruce Eva and Tony Leonard.
Saturday Twilight Game:Tony Shaw and Libby Birch, with callers Matt Granland and Shane McInnes.
Sunday Football:Tony Shaw and Matthew Richardson, with callers Bruce Eva and Matt Granland.
Adding to this year’s excitement, renowned journalist Laura Spurway will join the 3AW football team as the station’s first dedicated AFLW reporter, contributing to the Sunday coverage and appearing across all games.
Geelong champion Joel Selwood is joining the team rotating across all games. With his outstanding career as a player and captain, Joel brings all his footy knowledge fresh from the game to the 3AW team.
Additionally, Rory Sloane brings his wealth of experience to the broadcast team. Alongside his new role on Nine’s Sunday Footy Show, Sloane will be rotating into 3AW’s coverage, taking a seat next to AFL legend Leigh Matthews.
Along with our commentary teams and callers we also are thrilled to have back the boundary reporters Jacqui Reed and Carlton AFLW vice captain Abbie McKay.
Fans can also look forward to the return of the Eddie and Jimmy podcast in 2025, which will be publishing three episodes per week, available to listen to on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and to watch on 9Now.
Luca Gonano, Head of 3AW Football, said: “With a team of AFL greats, seasoned broadcasters, fresh voices and innovation in the games future, 3AW is proud to continue its tradition of delivering the most accurate, insightful and entertaining AFL coverage.”
Tune in for every key moment of the 2025 season, live on Melbourne’s own 3AW.
For further information, please contact: Caitlin Lynch Senior Communications Manager, Nine clynch@nine.com.au
Wednesday, March 5, 2025
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