SBS reality series 'Alone Australia' has returned for its second season, drawing a total TV reach of 532,000 viewers, with the audience expected to grow over the long weekend, according to SBS Director of Television, Kathryn Fink.

"Last night more than half a million people tuned in for highly anticipated return of Alone Australia. Overall, we are thrilled with the audience response and social noise around the show. Season 2 takes things to a new level and in audience terms we expect it to again standout out as unique property in the Australian TV landscape, especially as the audience builds over the long weekend," said Fink.

The episode had a national average audience of 262,000, with the overnight BVOD figure reported at 24,000.

"Last night's cliff hanger has captured audiences and we expect strong viewing to continue, over not just the next 7 days but also the next 28 days, as word of mouth spreads and the nation is once again captivated by the raw and authentic stories of our brave survivalists facing the harsh New Zealand winter," said FInk.

A more comprehensive summary of the show's performance will be provided next week, after the first 7 days of viewing.