ABC NEWS Channel & ABC Entertains moving to HD

21st May 2025

ABC NEWS Channel & ABC Entertains is moving to HD in June

From June the ABC will start broadcasting the ABC NEWS Channel & ABC Entertains in High Definition (HD), providing a better viewing experience for audiences. 

These channels will no longer be available in Standard Definition (SD).
The ABC will continue to broadcast the main ABC TV channel in both SD and HD. The ABC Kids/Family channel will also remain on SD.

All TVs sold since 2014, and many sold since 2008, should be HD (MPEG-4) compatible and set up to receive the full range of HD programming and TV multi-channels that are available in your area. TV’s that can tune to all the local free-to-air services available in your region do support HD. The changes should automatically appear in the channel list. If not, you will need to retune your TV. See How do I retune (rescan) my TV? below.

For TVs made prior to 2008, viewing the ABC NEWS Channel & ABC Entertains in HD will require an upgrade. The most cost-effective way is to install a digital set top box, which can be obtained from most electronics stores, is easy to install and doesn’t take up much space.

Additionally, you can stream ABC services through ABC iview.

To learn more about the changes go to: abc.net.au/hdchange

How do I retune (rescan) my TV?
The changes should automatically appear in the channel list of most TVs. If not, then the first thing to do is to retune your TV. 

Most TVs have an option to automatically retune channels within the TV menu. In many cases, the channel changes will appear after completing this process. If you are unsure how to retune channels you should refer to your TV manual or contact the manufacturer. 

The following are general instructions for retuning and not related to any specific set, model or brand. Menu descriptions and labels may vary depending on your equipment. Retuning should then only take a few minutes.

  1. Press the MENU or HOME button on your remote control to display the device control panel. 
  2. Locate the DIGITAL AUTO TUNING or DIGITAL CHANNEL SEARCH option. 
  3. Select START or SEARCH.