US hit Prison Break is performing well in Australia, with Seven choosing to re-run the two-hour series premiere for a second week.

On its first outing last week, the show held on to most of its Desperate Housewives lead-in, posting close to 2m viewers. A re-run of the premiere on Monday came close to 1m viewers.

Seven is employing a strategy of premiering shows just before Australia's ratings sweep begins on February 12, no doubt hoping that they will build national audiences before the crucial survey period. Another US import, Lost, is also doing well with its second season premiere watched by well over 2m viewers.

Seven isn't the only network hoping for a US imported ratings boost; Ten is gearing up to debut new seasons of Law and Order, House and Medium. Nine plans to counter-programme these offerings with locally-produced shows and coverage of the Commonwealth Games.

Stay with DS for full coverage as Australia's ratings sweep begins.