TV and Entertainment for Seniors in Australia
Watching what you want, when you want, and reading with text as large as you like, are some of the real joys of everyday technology. These guides keep it simple. They cover the easiest ways to stream television, set up a smart TV, and choose an eReader, all with Australian services in mind.
Where to start
Want to watch Netflix or ABC iview on the telly? Start with streaming devices, or how to use a smart TV you already own. Love reading? See the eReader guide.
What you can watch, and what is free
- Free in Australia: ABC iview, SBS On Demand, 7plus, 9Now and 10 play carry local channels and catch-up at no cost.
- Paid, by choice: Netflix, Disney+, Stan, Binge and Prime Video charge a monthly fee. You only pay for the ones you join.
- A simple remote matters more than the brand. Look for few buttons and a voice search button.
- Most devices need home Wi-Fi. If that is new to you, our Wi-Fi guide explains it plainly.
Choosing a device
Best Streaming Devices for Seniors in Australia
Apple TV, Fire TV Stick and Google TV compared simply.
Read the guide about Best Streaming Devices for Seniors in Australia →
Best eReaders for Seniors
Light, simple devices that hold thousands of books with text as large as you like.
Some links in our buying guides are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we would suggest to our own family.
Best Smart TVs for Seniors
Easy TVs with clear menus.
Best Soundbars for Clearer TV Speech
Make mumbled dialogue easier to hear.
Best Wireless TV Headphones
Hear the TV without turning it up.
Best Big-Button TV Remotes
Simple remotes with large buttons.
Kindle vs Kobo for Seniors
Which eReader suits, compared.
Which option suits best
| What you need | Better fit |
|---|---|
| You want free local TV and catch-up | ABC iview, SBS On Demand and free catch-up apps, no monthly cost |
| You want movies and series | Netflix, Disney+, Stan, Binge or Prime Video, pay only for what you join |
| Your TV is older with no apps | A streaming device like Apple TV, Fire TV Stick or Google TV |
| Your TV is already a smart TV | Use the built-in apps, no extra device needed |
| You mainly want to read | An eReader, easy on the eyes with weeks of battery |
Setting up and using
How to Watch Netflix or YouTube on a Smart TV
Find the apps and use the remote with confidence.
Read the guide about How to Watch Netflix or YouTube on a Smart TV →
The Best Streaming Services Explained
What each service offers, plainly.
Read the guide about The Best Streaming Services Explained →
Free Catch-Up TV Apps Explained
Local TV online, at no cost.
Streaming vs Foxtel: Which Is Better Value?
Which works out cheaper for you.
Read the guide about Streaming vs Foxtel: Which Is Better Value? →
How Much Do Streaming Services Cost?
Keep track of the monthly spend.
How to Watch Sport Online
Follow the game without a Foxtel box.
How to Set Up a Streaming Device
Get a streaming stick going.
How to Connect a Smart TV to Wi-Fi
The one-time setup, made simple.
How to Make Subtitles Bigger on a Smart TV
Larger, clearer subtitles.
Read the guide about How to Make Subtitles Bigger on a Smart TV →
How to Cast a Phone or Tablet to a TV
Put photos and video on the big screen.
Read the guide about How to Cast a Phone or Tablet to a TV →
How to Borrow Free Library eBooks with Libby
Free books through your library.
Read the guide about How to Borrow Free Library eBooks with Libby →
How to Set Up a Kindle and Make Text Bigger
Comfortable reading on a Kindle.
Read the guide about How to Set Up a Kindle and Make Text Bigger →
How to Listen to the Radio Online
Your favourite stations, anywhere.
Best Audiobook Apps for Seniors
Listen to books read aloud.
FAQ: TV and entertainment
Do I need a streaming device if I have a smart TV?
Usually not. A smart TV already has the apps built in. A streaming device mainly helps with an older television, or if you prefer a simpler menu.
Is streaming expensive?
It can be free. ABC iview, SBS On Demand, 7plus, 9Now and 10 play cost nothing. Netflix and the rest are optional monthly subscriptions you can start and stop any time.
Will streaming use up my internet?
It uses your home Wi-Fi. Most Australian home plans are unlimited, so there is usually nothing to worry about.
Is an eReader better than a tablet for reading?
For reading alone, yes. The screen is easier on the eyes, the battery lasts for weeks, and it is light to hold. A tablet does more, but is heavier and more distracting.
Where can I buy these in Australia?
Officeworks, JB Hi-Fi and Harvey Norman stock streaming devices and eReaders in store and online.
Before you finish
Download the free Family Tech Safety Checklist to help check phone safety, passwords, scam messages, emergency contacts and medical alarm details.
Where to go next
New to Wi-Fi or want to fix a slow device? See Tech Basics. Want a tablet for both reading and video calls? See Tablets and iPads. For a printable setup and safety pack, see The SeniorTech Toolkit.