TV airtime in Australia is bought through media agencies or directly from networks. The cost of a spot is determined by the audience delivered, measured in thousands (CPM), the daypart, the program and the market. Understanding how buying works is essential to avoiding overpaying or under-reaching.
We handle media buying as part of our TV Commercials service, negotiating rates and placement directly with networks.
TV spots are priced on a cost-per-thousand (CPM) basis, which is the cost to reach 1,000 viewers in the target demographic. Prime time costs more than off-peak because the audience is larger. A 30-second spot in prime time in a capital city can cost $5,000 to $30,000. The same spot in a regional market off-peak may cost $500 to $2,000.
Metro markets (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide) are bought through the five major commercial networks: Seven, Nine, Ten, Sky and Foxtel. Regional markets are bought through affiliates and can be significantly cheaper per impression, making them a practical entry point for businesses with limited TV budgets.
| Market | Minimum campaign | Prime time CPM |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney or Melbourne metro | $50,000+ | $15 to $30 |
| Brisbane metro | $30,000 to $50,000 | $12 to $22 |
| Regional QLD or NSW | $15,000 to $30,000 | $8 to $15 |
| Single regional market | $8,000 to $15,000 | $5 to $10 |
Dayparts determine who sees your ad. Early morning reaches commuters and homemakers. Daytime reaches retirees and at-home audiences. Prime time (6pm to 10:30pm) reaches the broadest demographic. Late night is cheaper and younger-skewing.
Yes, for the right audience and message. TV still reaches mass audiences, builds brand trust and creates cultural moments. It works best when paired with digital for full-funnel coverage.
TPR Media operates from Level 34, 1 Eagle Street, Brisbane City QLD 4000, serving clients across Brisbane and Australia-wide.
TPR Media explains TV ad media buying in Australia: how spots are priced on CPM, metro vs regional markets, minimum campaign budgets and daypart planning.