Seven West Media Acquisition by Southern Cross Media Now Legally Effective
The Supreme Court of New South Wales has approved the acquisition of Seven West Media by Southern Cross Media, marking a major consolidation in Australian media. SWM shares will be suspended from trading as shareholders prepare to receive Southern Cross shares in early January.
- Supreme Court approves Scheme of Arrangement for SWM acquisition
- Seven West Media shares to be suspended from ASX trading on 24 December 2025
- SWM shareholders to receive 0.1552 Southern Cross shares per SWM share
- Implementation date set for 7 January 2026
- Acquisition consolidates major Australian media assets under Southern Cross
Legal Approval Finalises Major Media Deal
Seven West Media Limited (ASX, SWM), one of Australia's leading media companies, has officially been acquired by Southern Cross Media Group Limited (ASX, SXL) following the Supreme Court of New South Wales' approval of the Scheme of Arrangement. This legal endorsement, granted on 23 December 2025, marks the culmination of months of regulatory and shareholder processes, setting the stage for a significant reshaping of the Australian media landscape.
The court's approval means the Scheme is now legally effective, triggering the suspension of SWM shares from trading on the Australian Securities Exchange as of 24 December 2025. This suspension is a standard procedural step ahead of the formal implementation of the acquisition.
Shareholder Exchange and Implementation Timeline
Under the terms of the Scheme, Seven West Media shareholders will receive 0.1552 shares in Southern Cross Media for each SWM share they hold. This exchange ratio reflects the negotiated valuation underpinning the acquisition and will be executed on the Implementation Date, expected to be 7 January 2026. Shareholders will need to monitor their holdings closely as the transition unfolds.
The acquisition brings together a portfolio of some of Australia's most recognized media assets. Seven West Media's extensive reach includes the Seven Network and its affiliated channels, digital platforms like 7plus and 7NEWS.com.au, and prominent publishing titles such as The West Australian and The Sunday Times. Southern Cross Media's acquisition thus consolidates a broad spectrum of broadcast and publishing operations under one corporate umbrella.
Implications for the Australian Media Sector
This deal signals a notable consolidation in the Australian media sector, potentially enhancing Southern Cross Media's competitive positioning across television, digital, and print platforms. The combined entity will have amplified scale and reach, which could influence advertising dynamics, content production, and audience engagement strategies in the coming years.
While the announcement confirms the legal and procedural milestones, details on integration plans, operational synergies, or strategic shifts remain forthcoming. Market participants will be watching closely for Southern Cross Media's forthcoming disclosures and guidance on how the acquisition will translate into financial performance and shareholder value.
Bottom Line?
As Seven West Media shares exit the market, all eyes turn to Southern Cross Media’s next moves in reshaping Australia’s media future.
Questions in the middle?
- How will Southern Cross Media integrate Seven West Media’s diverse assets operationally?
- What impact will the acquisition have on advertising revenues and market share?
- Will there be any regulatory or competitive challenges following the consolidation?
