AustraliaOwnership & classification
Founded: 1980
Ownership
SBS News is the news service of the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS), Australia's multicultural public service broadcaster. SBS was created by federal legislation (the 1977 amendment to the Broadcasting and Television Act, effective 1978) to run ethnic broadcasting, with full television transmission beginning on 24 October 1980. It is a statutory corporation wholly owned by the Australian Government, governed by a board appointed by the government but with editorial independence enshrined in the SBS Act.
Funding
Hybrid-funded: roughly 80% of its budget comes from an annual federal government appropriation, with the remainder from commercial activities including limited advertising and sponsorship.
Affiliation & stance
SBS is a government-owned public broadcaster funded primarily from the federal budget, which makes it STATE; however, its editorial independence is legally protected and the government does not direct programming, supporting its centrist, impartial news stance.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 137
80/100
Factual
73/100
Objective
152
Articles
152
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
Bird flu is here to stay. NZ’s response must keep adapting as the virus takes hold
The article discusses the growing threat of bird flu (H5N1) in New Zealand, highlighting the challenges posed by its spread among wild birds and marine mammals. It notes that the virus has been found in three wild birds, including a northern giant petrel, and cannot be contained or eradicated once established in wild populations. The situation is further complicated by the virus's ability to mutate unpredictably and affect previously untargeted species like marine mammals. New Zealand's response involves a 'One Health' approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health considerations. This includes coordinated efforts by the Ministry for Primary Industries, the Department of Conservation, and health agencies. A vaccination program targeting vulnerable native bird species is underway, alongside monitoring of overseas vaccine trials for marine mammals like the Hawaiian monk seal. The article emphasizes the use of 'adaptive management' in conservation strategies, drawing parallels to similar approaches used globally, such as in managing North American waterfowl and protecting the Great Barrier Reef. It also outlines the evolving nature of the threat, noting recent outbreaks
The music that made Dolly Parton a global icon
In 1967, Dolly Parton gained national attention during a televised appearance on Porter Wagoner's weekly TV show, where her distinctive style and charisma marked the beginning of her rise to fame. Over the decades, Parton became known as the 'Queen of Country' due to her storytelling through music and unique vocal expression. Musicologist Lydia Hamessley, author of a book on Parton's songs, highlights how Parton's music draws from traditional Appalachian influences and emphasizes her intuitive approach to songwriting. Hamessley describes Parton's creative process as both artistic and methodical, likening it to an artisan's craft. The episode features clips from various performances and interviews, showcasing Parton's enduring impact on country music.
What happens next with bird flu? An expert explains why monitoring matters
The article discusses the spread of the lethal H5N1 strain of avian influenza in southern Australia, which has killed thousands of wild birds and infected at least two long-nosed fur seals. Experts predict the virus will spread inland via waterfowl during the El Niño-induced drought, increasing disease transmission in shrinking wetlands. Macquarie Island's wildlife faces potential devastation, as similar outbreaks have occurred on other subantarctic islands. Shearwaters returning from global migration could become infected, while scavengers like foxes and roaming cats may spread the virus to urban areas. While the virus has not caused species extinction globally, experts emphasize the importance of monitoring its impact on Australia's unique ecosystems and vulnerable species like the Australian sea lion.
Politics with Michelle Grattan: Andrew Charlton’s warning on data centres’ impact on power bills
Federal Assistant Minister Andrew Charlton warned that allowing AI data centers to use coal or gas for power could increase household and business electricity prices. He argued that data centers using existing fossil fuel-generated power would compete with residential and commercial users, driving up costs. Charlton emphasized the need for data centers to rely on new renewable energy projects to avoid price hikes. However, recent discussions at a National Cabinet meeting resulted in Queensland and the Northern Territory securing an agreement to power their data centers with coal and gas. This decision followed a previous threat by Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen to override state governments that did not commit to renewable energy for data centers. Charlton acknowledged public concerns over data center impacts but cited U.S. experiences where unregulated expansion led to severe energy cost increases.
Meta touted its teen safety tool. What it didn't mention was that barely anyone was using it
Meta faced scrutiny in a legal case involving 29 U.S. states alleging the company designed its platforms to engage children and collect their data. Instagram head Adam Mosseri testified in a California court that the company promoted new teen safety tools, Take a Break and Quiet Mode, without disclosing their very low adoption rates during initial testing. These tools, introduced in 2021 and 2023, were reportedly used by less than 2% of teen accounts. Internal documents revealed that Take a Break had an adoption rate of 1.8%, while Quiet Mode reached 8.7%. Mosseri claimed the tools' usage had improved and were now enabled by default in Teen Accounts with parental controls, but he could not confirm whether Meta had previously shared these low adoption figures. The trial continues into late September, with further testimony expected.
Trump hits back at Canada after retaliatory tariffs announced
US President Donald Trump responded to Canada's announcement of retaliatory tariffs by accusing Canada of wanting the benefits of U.S. membership without the responsibilities. The tariffs, imposed by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, target U.S. steel and dairy products and are part of a broader trade dispute. Trump criticized Canada for imposing heavy tariffs on American farmers over the years. The retaliatory measures come after a failed trade negotiation, escalating tensions between the two nations. The tariffs affect various Canadian exports, potentially harming industries like wine, furniture, and dairy. Canadian leaders, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford, support the retaliatory action, while emphasizing the need to protect domestic industries from U.S. trade policies.
Trump's visa crackdown plan could affect thousands seeking asylum in the US
The U.S. government, under the Trump administration, plans to revoke business and tourism visas (B1 and B2) for up to 200,000 foreign nationals who have applied for or are seeking asylum in the United States. This would mark the largest single mass revocation of visas in U.S. history and is expected to face legal challenges. According to State Department documents obtained by the Associated Press and confirmed by two U.S. officials, the revocation would target individuals who entered the country on temporary visitor visas but later filed for asylum. While the move would not necessarily lead to immediate deportations, those affected would lose their status as business or tourism travelers. The policy aligns with broader efforts by the Trump administration to tighten visa restrictions, including increased scrutiny of social media histories, higher bond requirements, and bans on visas for citizens of specific countries. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau criticized what he described as 'bogus asylum claims' and emphasized that asylum should not be used as a way to bypass immigration laws.
'Extraordinarily expensive': Is this Australia's most controversial construction project?
Australia's Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) in Victoria has sparked significant controversy due to its high cost and uncertain returns. Premier Ben Carroll recently announced $2 billion in cuts to the project, stating he respects taxpayers' money, while opponents argue the project is financially unsustainable for Victoria, which already has the second-highest debt per capita. Supporters view the SRL as essential for accommodating Melbourne's growth and modernizing its transport system. The 90km underground rail line aims to connect suburban areas, with the first phase, SRL East, already under construction. However, concerns remain about the project's overall cost, with estimates reaching up to $96.4 billion for parts of the project, and criticism over the lack of a complete cost breakdown.
'Economic asphyxiation': US unveils sweeping new sanctions campaign in attempt to isolate Iran
The U.S. Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, announced new sanctions targeting Iran's economy, aiming to cut off all economic lifelines to the country. The measures include expanded secondary sanctions that could affect countries trading with Iran, with potential repercussions for entities in the UAE, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, and Europe. These sanctions focus on Iran's digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping sectors, alongside new penalties against 60 individuals, companies, and vessels involved in supporting Iran's oil revenue, weapons procurement, and cyber activities. Iran's economy minister dismissed the sanctions as predictable, stating the country was prepared to handle them with a two-year plan. Iran's deputy foreign minister suggested the U.S. actions reflect a military defeat rather than success.
A common tax misconception could catch some Australians by surprise
Australians who sell items online through platforms like eBay, Depop, or Facebook Marketplace may face unexpected tax obligations if they cross the line from casual selling to running a business. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) does not impose a minimum sales threshold for taxation, meaning even small earnings could be subject to scrutiny. The ATO tracks over 600 million transactions annually using various data sources, including payment processors and financial institutions. Selling a single item for less than its purchase price is typically considered a hobby and not taxable, but repeated sales or significant profits may trigger tax requirements. The distinction between a hobby and a business hinges on factors like frequency, intent, and profitability.
Eurovision faces fresh scrutiny as the Netherlands withdraws over Gaza tensions
The Netherlands has decided to withdraw from the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest due to concerns over the event's neutrality amid ongoing tensions related to the Gaza war. This decision follows recent changes made by Eurovision organizers, which exclude countries involved in armed conflicts from hosting the competition. The Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS stated that the contest has become a platform for division rather than a neutral celebration of music. The Netherlands had previously participated in the contest since its inception in 1956 and has won multiple times. The 2027 event will be held in Bulgaria, marking the first time the Balkan nation hosts the contest.
'Alarm bells': How Australia ended up back where it started
The article discusses the declining homeownership rates among young Australians, noting that fewer than 40% of 25-34-year-olds owned homes in 2021, comparable to 1940s levels. This trend is attributed to rising living costs, increased rents, and stagnant affordability. Anglicare Australia highlights the financial strain on younger Australians, emphasizing that housing insecurity is a major concern. Economist Angela Jackson notes that purchasing a home is significantly more expensive relative to incomes compared to previous generations. Demographer Liz Allen compares current challenges to the hardships of the 1940s, suggesting historical parallels in inequality and economic shocks.
Zelenskyy rejects plea for wartime presidential election
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected calls for holding a presidential election during the ongoing war with Russia, warning that such a move would 'destroy' the country by dividing its people. This comes after former defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who was recently dismissed, urged for a wartime election. Zelenskyy emphasized that conducting elections amid active combat is both legally prohibited and logistically unfeasible due to security risks and the large number of Ukrainians displaced or engaged in the conflict. He also noted that public opinion largely supports postponing elections until the war concludes. While Zelenskyy's approval ratings remain steady, polls indicate most Ukrainians prefer waiting for peace before voting. Zelenskyy reiterated his focus on ending the war and maintaining Ukraine's independence.