NewsMax Australia recently rebranded after striking a licensing agreement with the US news network of the same name, but is yet to officially launch its live-streaming news channel.
It previously operated under the name ADH TV, and the station’s revamped and expanded programming line-up was slated to launch in early March. However, it remains off-air with its existing list of presenters unpaid, a source with knowledge of the matter not authorised to speak publicly, said.
ADH broadcasted between three and four hours a day in 2024. Presenters included former Sky News Australia host Chris Smith, former Liberal Party candidate and anti-trans activist Katherine Deves, commentator for The Australian Nick Cater, and former Australian Christian Lobby boss Lyle Shelton.
It previously listed conservative lobby groups The Menzies Research Centre, The Institute of Public Affairs, and Advance Australia as partners, as well as far-right media organisation The Epoch Times.
NewsMax is led by former Seven News Sydney executive and adviser to Gina Rinehart, James Morrison, 25-year-old chief executive Jack Bulfin, and is chaired by Maurice Newman, former ABC chair and co-founder of Advance Australia.
Loading
It launched in 2021, initially as the new home of former 2GB and Sky News Australia broadcaster Alan Jones. Jones has since left the network, and is facing 20 counts of indecent assault, 11 counts of aggravated indecent assault, two counts of common assault and two counts of sexual touching.
The funding behind NewsMax Australia and Australian Digital Holdings remains unclear. It received early funding from James Packer; however, he is no longer financially involved, according to a person from NewsMax not authorised to speak publicly.
NewsMax has rejected suggestions it was partially funded by Rinehart. A person with knowledge of the dealings not authorised to speak publicly indicated the mining magnate was approached but that no funding or advertising deal was ever finalised.
While it is not yet broadcasting, NewsMax Australia has begun posting some content across its social media accounts on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and X, including an interview between Deves and the independent candidate for Bradfield, Andy Yin.
The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning.
