Foxtel is launching FOX DOCOS, a first-of-its-kind, dedicated destination for award-winning documentaries from around the world.
The channel comes after, New research commissioned by Foxtel, has revealed documentary viewing has reached an all-time high with 89 per cent of Australians tuning in to watch a documentary or docu-series in the last 18 months.
The research found Australian households were watching an average of 11 documentaries during that time. The research, conducted by YouGov, showed NSW, VIC and SA were the states that saw the biggest peak in viewing compared to residents in WA (13.04, 11.96, 11.47 compared to 7.45).
The top genres of documentaries being watched are history and world events (41 per cent) and crime/true crime and justice (35 per cent). Other genres seeing growing popularity are environmental and nature stories (30 per cent), science and medicine (27 per cent) and travel (23 per cent).
Documentaries are shaping a new wave of compelling conversations and search behaviour, with over 70 per cent of people having conversations inspired by watching them in the last month, 57 per cent using documentaries to widen their knowledge and 26 per cent turning to them for escapism.
Almost half (45 per cent) of those who viewed a documentary dug deeper, researching a topic or real-life event or individual while watching it, while one in four (28 per cent) sought out other programs and podcasts to carve out more of the story. One third (34 per cent) were influenced by their documentary of choice so much so it changed their opinion on a matter.
The research also showed that Gen Z are the most likely generation to become more vocal on environmental or human rights issues after watching a documentary or docu-series (30 per cent).
The research also uncovered unexpected genres of choice across generations and demographics, with millennials displaying a strong interest in stories about religion and cults (15 per cent) and Australian women investing heavily in true crime stories with almost half (45 per cent) listing it as their favourite documentary genre compared to just 26% of men.
Jim Buchan, FOXTEL general manager, Factual, said: “The popularity of true and unforgettable stories with Australian audiences is at its peak.
“This new research uncovered the variety of genres Australians are now turning into and the compelling conversations and connections these stories are igniting amongst viewers.
“In our mission to bring world-class entertainment to the living rooms and screens of more Australians each and every day, we are excited to launch FOX DOCOS giving our customers an unrivalled destination for brand new, highly acclaimed world-class documentaries all in one place.
“Featuring a broad range of content from renowned producers, directors and distributors, FOX DOCOS will appeal to all ages.
“From headline-grabbing scandals, celebrity biographies and artist performances to incredible sporting moments, epic travelogue series and inspiring stories of everyday people, FOX DOCOS will unfold the story and enhance audience understanding of our fascinating, ever-changing world at a time when we need it the most.”