Sky News Australia sets July 27 launch for News24 rebrand

Sky News Australia plans to transition to the News24 brand July 27, extending the new identity across its broadcast channels, streaming services and digital platforms.

Sky News Australia to rebrand as News24 after licensing deal ends

The News Corp Australia-owned broadcaster said the change would include an updated on-air presentation, new digital products and expanded international coverage through a London bureau.

“Our inherent entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to bring our viewers the news live as it happens remains unchanged, and I look forward to launching News24 in the coming weeks, as we embark on this exciting next chapter,” Sky News Australia CEO Paul Whittaker said.

News24 will remain available through subscription television, regional free-to-air television, the network’s website, Facebook and YouTube. The company also plans to introduce a free ad-supported streaming television channel for connected TVs and a DAB+ radio service in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

The primary News24 channel will air on Foxtel Channel 600. News24 Weather will remain on Channel 601, while News24 World will air global live events and press conferences on Channel 603.

FOX Sports News, produced by News24, will continue on Foxtel Channel 500. News24 Regional will be available on Channel 56 in selected markets in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

News24 Now will be offered on compatible Samsung and LG smart TVs. News24 Radio will be accessible through DAB+ and the Nova Player and Smooth Player apps.

The News24.com.au website and News24 Australia app are also scheduled to launch July 27.

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The rebrand follows Sky’s decision not to renew the licensing agreement that allowed the Australian broadcaster to use the Sky name. Sky News Australia has operated under the brand since its launch on Feb. 19, 1996.

News Corp Australia acquired full ownership of the channel in 2016. The broadcaster continued using the Sky News identity under a licensing arrangement after Comcast acquired Sky UK.

Sky News Australia previously said the transition would position News24 as a standalone, multiplatform news operation. The company announced the name during a 30th anniversary event at its broadcast center in Surry Hills, Sydney.

The facility includes new studios and control rooms that are scheduled to enter service later in 2026.