SBS50: Fast Facts

Did you know that, in 1985, stereo broadcasting on the AM frequency started in Australia? It was a last-ditch attempt to fight off the rising competition of many new FM stations which were popular with younger listeners. It was also the year when the number of programs on SBS Radio grew to more than 50, among them Dari, Kurdish and Indonesian.

Did you know that, in 1986, the film Crocodile Dundee was released? Starring Aussie actor Paul Hogan, it was a worldwide smash hit, becoming the highest grossing Australian film ever.

Did you know that in 1987, the first mobile phone call was made in Australia? The first portable handsets were about the size of a briefcase, cost more than four thousand dollars and had a battery life of little more than 20 minutes.

Did you know that in 1988, Australia celebrated the 200th anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet from Britain? Carrying more than 700 convicts over 250 marines and their families, the Fleet entered Sydney Harbour on 26 January 1788. This date is still celebrated as "Australia Day".

Did you know that, in 1989, Australia experienced one of its worst natural disasters when a massive earthquake shook Newcastle, killing 13 people and injuring more than 160? The 5.6 magnitude quake was also felt in many areas of rural NSW.

Did you know that, in 1990, Australia suffered severe economic difficulties including a stock market slump, high inflation and rising unemployment? It was the recession then Treasurer Paul Keating famously claimed “we had to have.”

Did you know that, in 1991, Australia was one of 34 countries to enter into a coalition contributing military forces to the Gulf War, following the invasion of Kuwait by its neighbour Iraq. However, the decision to send troops was greeted by huge peace marches across Australia, demanding the withdrawal of Australian forces from the Gulf.

Did you know that, in 1992, the High Court of Australia recognised that Aboriginal people have native title over land and waters according to their customary law? Known as the Mabo case, the decision rejected the belief that Australia had been an empty country prior to English settlement and that Aboriginal people had no connection to the land.

Did you know that, in 1993, the first website was launched? The new technology was made available to the public free of charge. It was the birth of the worldwide web. It was also the year of the official opening of the new Sydney SBS Radio and Television headquarters at Artarmon.

Did you know that, in 1994, Australia's population was over 17 million - almost twice the size it was at the end of World War Two? It was also the year when, on January 26, 1994, SBS Radio launched its national network, reaching almost 90 per cent of the Australian continent.