‘Diversity’ is the word as SBS brings its 2018 Upfronts presentation to Perth

“We live diversity” was the theme as SBS presented their 2018 upfronts in Perth yesterday at Meeka restaurant in Subiaco.

Head of Sales Andrew Cook, Head of Network Programming Peter Andrews, and National Television & Digital Sales Manager Adam Sadler joined WA State Manager Chris Eyres to outline a characteristically thought-provoking, unique and sometimes brave roster aimed at fostering greater understanding of diversity across the Australian community.

Andrews said the network’s programming in 2018 will remain true to its core values: Fearless, Innovative, World-class, Inspiring and Entertaining.

Its 2018 drama line-up is headlined by commissioned new Australian series Safe Harbour – a psychological thriller filmed and set in Brisbane, exploring how a single action has a ripple effect building to tsunami proportions – and Dead Lucky – a crime drama starring Rachel Griffiths, revealing the complexities and tensions in cross-cultural relationships.

SBS has enjoyed a successful year in 2017. It recorded its largest share of the TV audience in its history, and its prime time share was its highest for 6 years. Youth-focused SBS Viceland claimed the biggest social media following of any network multi-channel.

The network received a big boost Wednesday night when Australia qualified for next year’s FIFA World Cup – a major part of SBS’s Sports schedule in 2018, along with its renowned coverage of the Tour de France.