Australia has embraced streaming television with enthusiasm, and for good reason. With services like Netflix, Stan, Binge, Kayo, and the free-to-air catch-up apps, there's an incredible amount of content available at your fingertips. But getting all these apps set up and running optimally on your Smart TV can be confusing, especially with different TV brands having different app stores and interfaces.
This comprehensive guide walks you through setting up the most popular Australian streaming services on your Smart TV, with tips to ensure you're getting the best possible picture and sound quality from each service.
Understanding Your TV's App Platform
Before installing streaming apps, it's helpful to understand which platform your Smart TV uses. The major platforms available in Australia include:
- Samsung Tizen: Used on all Samsung Smart TVs from 2015 onwards
- LG webOS: Powers LG Smart TVs with an intuitive launcher bar
- Google TV / Android TV: Found on Sony, TCL, Hisense, and other brands
- Roku TV: Available on some TCL and Hisense models
- Fire TV: Amazon's platform, found on some budget TVs
All major Australian streaming services are available across these platforms, though the installation process differs slightly between them.
Setting Up Netflix
Netflix is pre-installed on most Smart TVs sold in Australia. If it's not already on your TV or you've deleted it, here's how to install:
- Open your TV's app store (Samsung: Apps, LG: LG Content Store, Android TV: Google Play Store)
- Search for "Netflix" and select the official app
- Install the app and open it
- Sign in with your Netflix account or create one
To ensure you're getting the best picture quality, go to your Netflix account settings via a web browser (not the TV app), select "Playback Settings" under your profile, and set data usage to "High" or "Auto". This enables 4K and HDR streaming where available.
Setting Up Stan
Stan is Australia's homegrown streaming service with an excellent library of local and international content, including Stan Originals. The setup process is straightforward:
- Navigate to your TV's app store
- Search for "Stan" and install the app
- Open Stan and sign in or start a free trial
- For 4K content, ensure you have a Stan Premium subscription
Stan supports 4K Ultra HD with HDR on compatible TVs when you subscribe to Stan Premium. The app automatically detects your TV's capabilities and streams at the highest available quality.
Setting Up Binge
Binge offers premium content from HBO, Warner Bros., and other major studios. It's particularly popular for prestige television series. To set up Binge:
- Find and install Binge from your TV's app store
- Open the app and sign in or subscribe
- Binge Standard or Premium subscriptions unlock HD and 4K streaming
Binge supports Dolby Atmos audio on compatible content when your TV or soundbar supports it. Check your TV's audio settings to ensure Atmos passthrough is enabled if you have an Atmos sound system.
Setting Up Kayo Sports
For sports fans, Kayo is essential. It offers live and on-demand coverage of AFL, NRL, cricket, football, motorsports, and more. Here's how to set it up:
- Install Kayo from your TV's app store
- Sign in with your Kayo account or subscribe
- Select your favourite sports and teams for personalised recommendations
Kayo offers features like SplitView (watch up to 4 streams at once), Interactive Stats, and Key Moments navigation. These features work best on larger screens, making your Smart TV the ideal way to experience Kayo.
Free-to-Air Catch-Up Apps
Australian free-to-air networks offer catch-up apps that let you watch recent broadcasts on demand, completely free:
ABC iview
The ABC's streaming service offers all ABC content on-demand, plus ABC News live streaming. It's completely free with no subscription required. Install from your app store and start watching immediately.
SBS On Demand
SBS On Demand includes SBS content plus a rotating library of movies and international series. The app is free but includes some advertising. Create a free account for personalised recommendations.
7plus
Channel 7's streaming service includes live streaming of 7, 7TWO, 7mate, and 7flix, plus on-demand content. It requires a free account to use.
9Now
Nine's streaming platform offers live and on-demand content from all Nine channels. It's ad-supported and free to use with account registration.
10 Play
Network 10's app includes live streaming and on-demand content. Like the other commercial catch-up services, it's free with advertisements.
Optimising Streaming Quality
To get the best streaming experience on your Smart TV, consider these optimisation tips:
Internet Connection
Streaming quality depends heavily on your internet connection. Here are the minimum speeds recommended:
- SD quality: 3 Mbps
- HD quality (1080p): 5-8 Mbps
- 4K Ultra HD: 25 Mbps
- 4K with HDR: 40 Mbps for best results
For the most reliable connection, use an Ethernet cable rather than Wi-Fi. If Wi-Fi is your only option, ensure your TV is connected to your 5GHz network rather than 2.4GHz for faster speeds.
Picture Settings
Most streaming apps work best with your TV's "Cinema" or "Movie" picture mode rather than "Vivid" or "Dynamic". This provides more accurate colours as the content creators intended.
Many TVs apply motion smoothing by default, which creates an artificial "soap opera effect" that makes movies and TV shows look unnatural. Disable settings like "Motion Plus", "TruMotion", or "Motionflow" when watching streaming content for the intended cinematic look.
Managing Multiple Streaming Subscriptions
With so many services available, subscription costs can add up. Consider these strategies:
- Rotate subscriptions monthly - subscribe to one service, watch what you want, then switch
- Take advantage of free trials before committing
- Look for bundle deals - some services offer discounts when combined
- Share family plans where the terms of service permit
- Don't forget the free options - ABC iview and SBS On Demand have excellent content
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you experience problems with streaming apps, try these solutions:
- Buffering or poor quality: Check your internet speed, move closer to your router, or switch to Ethernet
- App crashing: Clear the app cache in your TV settings, or uninstall and reinstall the app
- No 4K or HDR: Verify your subscription tier supports it and your TV is compatible
- Audio sync issues: Restart the app or check your TV's audio delay settings
Conclusion
Setting up streaming apps on your Australian Smart TV opens up a world of entertainment. With the major services like Netflix, Stan, Binge, and Kayo, plus the excellent free-to-air catch-up apps, you'll have access to thousands of hours of content. Take the time to configure each app properly, optimise your internet connection, and adjust your TV's picture settings for the best possible viewing experience.