Syfy to Make Australian Debut

LONDON: Syfy will launch for the first time in Australia on January 1, 2014, available in HD.

Foxtel subscribers will receive Syfy as a linear channel as well as on compatible tablets and smartphones. The channel will also be available on Internet-connected devices through the new Foxtel Play as well as Foxtel on T-box and Foxtel Telstra Mobile. Syfy HD will also have a companion website, available prior to launch, from December.

The new Australian paranormal series Haunting: Australia will make its world premiere on Syfy in February. The channel will also be the new home for the Australian premieres of Misfits (season five), Haven (season four), Warehouse 13 (season five) and Defiance (season two). Other series featured on the network include Stargate SG-1, Torchwood, Doctor Who, Orphan Black and Primeval.

Belinda Menendez, the president of Universal Networks International and NBCUniversal International Television Distribution, commented: “It’s a very exciting time for NBCUniversal in Australia; we are thrilled to have recently appointed Chris Taylor to lead our integrated television operations in Australia and New Zealand—as we prepare to transform Universal Channel and bring Syfy to the market for the first time ever. We look forward to the launch of Syfy broadening our portfolio of channels in Australia and to bringing viewers a high-definition experience of the best in imagination-based entertainment—both genre classics, along with series and movies premiering in the market.”