Australia Network

Australia Plus, originally Australia Television International and later ABC Asia Pacific and Australia Network, is an international satellite television service operated by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation since 2001. It is not free-to-air in most countries, being only available via paid cable and satellite services. The television and online service broadcasts 24 hours a day on 7 days a week, to approximately 44 countries in Asia and the Pacific. The channel broadcasts a mix of programming, including lifestyle, drama, sports, English-language learning programs, children's programming and news and current affairs. The international television service's current incarnation launched on 1 January 2002. It is funded partially by Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, as well as some advertising. The channel is targeted at local audiences in 44 countries across parts of Asia and the Pacific. Australia network, along with international radio network Radio Australia, is a part of the ABC's International, Corporate Strategy and Governance division. In the 2014 Australian federal budget, all funding to the Australia Network was cut and its closure was announced.