Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has announced that its streaming service, Max, will officially launch in Australia on March 31. This marks the latest step in WBD’s global expansion, as it aims to compete with major platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and local streaming services.
Australia is currently the second-largest premium SVOD market in the Asia-Pacific region, following Japan. With an increasingly competitive streaming industry, WBD is leveraging its extensive content library including HBO and Max Originals, Warner Bros. Television series, and recent theatrical releases to establish a strong presence in the region. The company first hinted at the Australian launch last September at the APOS media and entertainment industry conference in Bali, Indonesia.
Michael Brooks, general manager of WBD Australia and New Zealand, said, “WBD has a long history in Australia, and we know our world-class content from HBO, Warner Bros., Discovery and more is incredibly popular with audiences here. We have a clear strategy to maximize reach through our direct-to-consumer app and distribution partnerships, and our collaboration with Foxtel at launch is a testament to that.”
Max will be available through website, app stores such as Apple and Google Play, and major streaming devices, including mobile, tablets, gaming consoles, and connected TVs like Hubble. Additionally, WBD has confirmed a launch partnership with Foxtel, allowing existing subscribers to access the Max app at no extra cost.
Additionally, One of Max’s early highlights in Australia will be the highly anticipated second season of HBO’s post-apocalyptic series, The Last of Us, which will premiere exclusively on the platform on April 14. The show, starring Pedro Pascal, has been positioned as a major draw for the service.
JB Perrette, CEO and president of global streaming and games at WBD, said, “We’ve been clear that the globalization of Max is a top priority, and Australia represents one of our biggest new markets and a significant opportunity to delight even more fans with the incredible stories told by our iconic brands.”
Furthermore, with its extensive content library and key partnerships, WBD is positioning Max as a major player in Australia’s streaming industry. The launch sets the stage for future expansion and competition in an already crowded market.