The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has released new research revealing significant shifts in the country's media and communications trends. The research indicates a continued move away from traditional live TV services, with more Australians turning to streaming services for video and audio content.

In 2024, 91% of Australians used an online service, either paid or free, to watch video content, up from 83% in 2023. YouTube remains the top online service used for video content, with 57% of Australians tuning in weekly.

The research also shows an increase in the number of Australians watching paid subscription services. Simultaneously, there's a decline in the number of people who watched live free-to-air TV (excluding catch-up TV). For the first time, less than half of Australians watched live free-to-air TV, with the figure dropping to 46% from 52% in 2023.

The use of apps for voice calls is also on the rise, with older Australians driving this growth. 47% of Australians aged 65-74 used an app to make a voice call, up from 38% last year.

The research also found that 98% of Australians are on at least one communication or social media website or app, an increase from 97% in 2023. Facebook is the most used platform, with 78% of adults using it in the previous six months, while YouTube saw a decline to 70% (from 75% in 2023).

The research is comprised of five reports published on the ACMA website as part of the ACMA's 'Communications and media in Australia' series, which features data snapshots looking at topics such as internet usage, broadcast and streaming consumption, mobile phone use, and digital platforms. The reports provide insights into the telecommunications and media industries, including the uptake and usage of services and industry activities.