SBS Just Launched ‘WorldWatch’, A Multilingual News Channel

In case you missed it, SBS just launched a shiny, new free-to-air news channel called WorldWatch. 

“Our multilingual strategy sits at the heart of SBS and we are very excited to extend our offering with the launch of the SBS WorldWatch channel today, which sees us further expand our in-language news bulletins for people whose preferred language may not be English, said Managing Director James Taylor.

“From today our Mandarin and Arabic news programs, which we soft launched on SBS OnDemand earlier this year, will have a prime-time home on the SBS WorldWatch channel.” 

The 24-hour news channel will also broadcast a range of international broadcasts from over 30 countries, including Spain, Italy, India, and Indonesia. Not only does it cater to the needs of Australia’s linguistically diverse population, it could also be a lifeline for language learners looking to escape the wrath of the DuoLingo owl.

Mandi Wicks, Director of News and Current Affairs, said the launch of the new channel reflects the broadcaster’s commitment to meeting the needs of Australia’s culturally and linguistically diverse population.

“SBS is uniquely placed to reach and engage the many Australians who speak a language other than English, and we are thrilled to be evolving and enhancing our offering with the launch of SBS WorldWatch,” she said.

“It is exciting to be increasing our commitment to more SBS-produced multilingual news through the Arabic and Mandarin bulletins, ensuring access to relevant and current news for two of Australia’s largest and fastest-growing language communities.”

The multicultural broadcaster came under fire in 2020 for its lack of leadership diversity.

Watch SBS WorldWatch on free-to-air TV (channel 35) or stream it on SBS OnDemand.