The Nine Network's compelling and controversial Australian drama series UNDERBELLY was the most successful Australian drama launch for Sydney and in the 25-54 year-old demographic since the new OzTam ratings system was introduced.

UNDERBELLY, the dramatisation of Melbourne’s infamous gangland killings was also the number one show of the night for the 25-54 demographic, even without a Melbourne audience. UNDERBELLY was not shown in Victoria last night due to a court order suppressing its broadcast in that state.

Last night’s debut of UNDERBELLY attracted a peak audience of 1.475 million and an average audience across the two hour broadcast of 1.325 million viewers (All People, excluding Melbourne).

The two hour series premiere was the number one program of the night for All People in all markets that it aired - Sydney , Brisbane , Adelaide and Perth . 

It was also the number one program in Sydney , Brisbane , Adelaide and Perth for the key 25-54 demographic.

UNDERBELLY was must-see viewing with the audience staying for the 2 hour broadcast.

In Sydney , it attracted a peak audience of 685,000. Brisbane – 345,000, Adelaide - 215,000 and Perth – 259,000.

UNDERBELLY attracted an average audience across the two hours of 617,000 viewers in Sydney, Brisbane  - 293,000, Adelaide - 189,000 and Perth -  226,000.