The federal government has decided to cancel the anticipated expansion of SBS into Western Sydney, as confirmed to the broadcasting service. This decision was reportedly influenced by the current fiscal environment, which necessitated reevaluation of the project.

Acting Managing Director Jane Palfreyman communicated this development to SBS staff via email, expressing disappointment over the halted initiative. “It is regrettable that we cannot move forward with this expansion, given the potential it held for enhancing SBS’s facilities and content capabilities, as well as for amplifying our storytelling and engagement in one of Australia’s most diverse and rapidly growing areas,” Palfreyman stated.

Despite this setback, Palfreyman reassured that SBS remains fully committed to the Western Sydney communities. She emphasized the broadcaster’s intention to continue nurturing relationships that have been developed over more than five decades, while also seeking to establish new connections within this vibrant region.

Emphasizing the importance of Western Sydney to SBS’s operations, Palfreyman affirmed that the broadcaster will persist in its mission to narrate the stories of this region. Through a range of news, audio, and screen content, SBS aims to collaborate with local communities to acknowledge and celebrate significant cultural events, ensuring that these narratives remain a core part of its service provision.

She said SBS would continue to strengthen the relationships built over more than 50 years while forging new connections across this dynamic region.

Telling the stories of Western Sydney through news, audio and screen content, and working with communities to recognise and celebrate significant cultural moments will remain central to how SBS delivers its services, Palfreyman said.

A spokesperson for Communications Minister Anika Wells said the federal government would continue to support the “important work” of SBS “now and into the future”.

“The Albanese government is proud to have delivered 5-year funding terms to the SBS,” the spokesperson said.

“This funding will see more than $1.7 billion invested into our multicultural national broadcaster through to 27/28.”

“This funding is complemented by the government’s recent commitment to SBS Examines to tackle misinformation and foster social cohesion.”

SBS said it was a government decision and would not be providing comment.

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