FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS about advertising on TV

FAQs on Buying and Advertising on TV in Australia | email YESmarketing 

TV Advertising in Australia – FAQ answered by YESmarketing

Looking to advertise on television in Australia? Whether you're a business owner, media planner, or simply exploring your options, this guide will help you navigate the TV advertising landscape. From ad costs and formats to network selection and campaign strategy, these frequently asked questions explain how TV ads work — and how YESmarketing, Australia’s trusted media agency, can help make it simple and successful.

 

How Much Does a 30-Second TV Commercial Cost in Australia?

TV ad rates vary widely based on the market, channel, and time slot. Here’s a rough guide:

• Regional TV: $300–$800 per 30 seconds
• Metro TV (Capital Cities): $1,000–$5,000+ per 30 seconds
• Premium Prime Time (Metro): $5,000–$20,000+ per 30 seconds

Factors that affect cost include:

• Daypart (e.g. breakfast, morning, off-peak, prime time)
• Program (e.g. Sunrise, The Voice, AFL, MAFS)
• Network (Channel 7, 9, 10, SBS, Foxtel)
• Seasonality (e.g. Christmas, State of Origin, Olympics)

For live TV rates and available spots, speak to YESmarketing or visit our TV booking platform.

 

What Lengths of TV Commercials Can I Use?

TV spots come in various standard lengths:

• 5 seconds (only in selected shows)
• 15 seconds
• 30 seconds (most common)
• 45 and 60 seconds
• 60 seconds plus, are called “Advertorials”

 

Do I Need to Get My TV Ad Approved?

Yes. All TV commercials in Australia must be approved by ClearAds (formerly CAD – Commercials Advice).

• Approval ensures your ad complies with legal, classification, and scheduling standards.
• YESmarketing manages this process for you, including script submissions and final classification codes.

 

What is the Cost to Produce a TV Ad in Australia?

Production costs depend on complexity, talent, and locations. As a guide:

• Basic Ad (graphics, voice-over): $2,000–$5,000
• Standard TVC with actors/footage: $5,000–$20,000
• High-End TVC (studio, drone, casting): $20,000–$100,000+

YESmarketing can scale production to your needs and budget — from retail spots to cinematic brand stories.

 

What TV Networks Can I Advertise On?

YESmarketing books media across all major networks:

• Free-to-air: Channel 7, Channel 9, Channel 10, SBS
• Subscription TV: Foxtel, Sky News, Lifestyle, Sport, Movies
• BVOD (Broadcast Video on Demand): 7plus, 9Now, 10Play

You can choose based on:

• Audience demographics
• Program performance
• Budget
• National vs local reach

 

Can I Target Specific Areas or Cities?

Yes. With metro, regional, and zone-based buys, you can geo-target your ads:

• Metro-only (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, etc.)
• Regional-only (e.g. Southern Cross, WIN)
• National reach with market splits

YESmarketing tailors campaigns by postcode, DMA, or even specific cable zones.

 

Is Advertising on Catch-Up or Streaming TV Worth It?

Absolutely. Broadcast Video On Demand (BVOD) is one of the fastest-growing segments:

• Ads run on 7plus, 9Now, 10Play during full-episode playback
• Target by age, gender, interests, and even device type
• Great for measurable reach and cost-efficiency

YESmarketing builds hybrid campaigns combining live TV and digital streaming for maximum exposure.

 

What’s the Difference Between Prime Time and Off-Peak TV?

Prime Time: 6pm–10:30pm (most expensive, largest audiences)
Off-Peak: Mid-morning, early afternoon, late night (cheaper, smaller but cost-effective)

Choosing the right time depends on your audience, message, and budget.

 

How Do I Know If My TV Ad Worked?

TV performance can be measured by:

• Website traffic spikes (post-airing)
• Promo codes or vanity URLs
• BVOD view-through rates
• Call tracking
• Sales uplift during scheduled flights

YESmarketing provides campaign reports and viewer data to optimise future spend.

 

Why Use YESmarketing for Your TV Campaign?

We take care of everything:

• Media strategy and placement (Metro, Regional, BVOD)
• TV ad production (script to screen)
• Approvals and ClearAds classification
• Budget management and value-add negotiation
• Campaign tracking and reporting

With over 30 years of media experience, we’re your one-stop partner for impactful and intelligent TV advertising.

 

TV Advertising Glossary

Term	Meaning
ClearAds	Mandatory body that approves TV commercials for Australian networks
BVOD	Broadcast Video on Demand (e.g. 7plus, 9Now, 10Play)
Daypart	TV schedule blocks (e.g. breakfast, daytime, prime time)
GRP	Gross Rating Point — measure of ad reach x frequency
Makegood	A replacement spot if your ad didn’t air correctly
Traffic	The team at the station who schedule ad spots
OTS	“Opportunities to See” — how many times an average viewer sees your ad

 

Still have questions?
Visit YESmarketing.com.au or email us to get help planning your next successful TV campaign in Australia.