The Australian television landscape is a competitive arena, and the latest moves by Network 10 are a strategic bid to strengthen its position in the early evening entertainment slot. The network has made a significant shift in its programming, with a focus on revamping its news and entertainment offerings.
One of the key changes is the separation of 10 News+ and 10 News, with the latter now presenting a 90-minute edition. This move is a calculated attempt to boost the ratings of popular shows like 'Deal or No Deal' and 'Millionaire Hot Seat', which are crucial for the network's 7:30 entertainment lineup. The strategy seems to be paying off, as evidenced by the latest viewership numbers.
According to the data, 10 News averaged 348,000 viewers, a notable increase from last Monday's 306,000. The 6 pm edition of 10 News+ also saw a rise, attracting 226,000 viewers, compared to 175,000 the previous week. These figures indicate a positive trajectory for the network's news programming.
In the 7:30 pm slot, 'The Block' emerged as the clear winner, drawing 1.28 million viewers, a substantial lead over its competitors. 'The Voice' secured 918,000 viewers, while '7:30' and 'Australian Story' trailed behind with 749,000 and 602,000 viewers, respectively. 'Deal or No Deal: Celebrity Jackpot' managed 304,000 viewers, showcasing the appeal of game shows in this time slot.
The late-night shows also had their moments, with 'Have You Been Paying Attention?' leading the pack with 669,000 viewers, followed by 'Media Watch' (570,000), 'Four Corners' (563,000), and 'The Rookie' (479,000). In regional areas, 'Footy Classified' and '100% Footy' found their audience, with 210,000 and 191,000 viewers, respectively.
Seven News dominated the 7 pm slot with 1.58 million viewers, followed by 'Home & Away' (1.02 million) and 'The Chase' (737,000). 'The Agenda Setters' and 'Rugby League' attracted 103,000 and 72,000 viewers, respectively. Nine News pulled in 1.39 million viewers, with 'A Current Affair' (1.16 million) and 'Tipping Point' (873,000) as its top-rated shows.
ABC News secured 977,000 viewers, with 'Hard Quiz' (424,000) and 'If You're Listening' (373,000) as its most-watched programs. SBS World News attracted 228,000 and 152,000 viewers in its respective time slots, with 'Scandinavia with Simon Reeve' and 'Mastermind' as the top-rated shows.
In the morning news segment, 'Sunrise' led with 483,000 viewers, followed by 'Today' (289,000) and 'News Breakfast' (228,000). These figures provide a comprehensive overview of the Australian television market's performance on Monday, August 10, 2026.
What makes this scenario particularly intriguing is the strategic shift in programming, which highlights the network's commitment to adapting to viewer preferences. The rise in viewership for 10 News and the success of 'The Block' in the 7:30 pm slot demonstrate the power of strategic programming decisions. However, it remains to be seen whether these changes will solidify Network 10's position in the long term.
From my perspective, the key takeaway is that the television industry is a dynamic and competitive space, where networks must continually innovate and adapt to thrive. The success of 'The Block' and the potential boost for 'Deal or No Deal' and 'Millionaire Hot Seat' indicate that viewers are responding positively to these changes. Nevertheless, the network must continue to refine its strategy to maintain its competitive edge in an ever-evolving media landscape.
