Where to Watch the 98th OSCARS® AWARDS Live and Free in Australia

Why It Matters

Live, free access strengthens Seven’s position as Australia’s premier awards broadcaster and boosts ad revenue, while delayed regional feeds could fragment audience engagement.

Key Takeaways

• Seven holds exclusive Oscars broadcast rights through 2028
• Live coverage starts 5:30 am AEDT with Sunrise feed
• Red carpet 9:30 am, ceremony 10:00 am AEDT
• Delayed broadcast outside eastern states may cause spoilers
• Australian nominees include Rose Byrne, Jacob Elordi, Nick Cave

Pulse Analysis

The 98th Academy Awards represent a pivotal moment for Australian broadcasters, as Seven cements its status as the nation’s go‑to home for Hollywood’s biggest night. Securing exclusive rights through 2028 gives Seven a competitive edge in a fragmented media landscape, allowing the network to attract premium advertisers seeking a captive, upscale audience. The partnership also aligns with the network’s broader strategy to leverage high‑profile live events to drive viewership across its linear and digital platforms, reinforcing its market share against streaming rivals.

Seven’s rollout is meticulously timed for Australian viewers, with Sunrise providing a live feed from the Dolby Theatre at 5:30 am AEDT, followed by a dedicated Red Carpet segment at 9:30 am and the ceremony at 10:00 am AEDT. The simultaneous streaming on 7plus expands reach to cord‑cutters, though the decision to delay the broadcast for viewers outside the eastern states introduces a risk of spoilers that could erode real‑time engagement. This split‑feed approach underscores the challenges networks face balancing nationwide coverage with time‑zone logistics.

The ceremony also spotlights Australian talent, featuring first‑time nominees Rose Byrne, Jacob Elordi, musician Nick Cave and production designer Fiona Crombie. Their presence not only boosts domestic interest but also offers Seven valuable promotional angles for local advertisers. As the industry watches the Oscars’ ratings and ad performance, the outcomes will inform future rights negotiations and the network’s investment in live event programming, shaping Australia’s television ecosystem for years to come.