Australian Broadcasting Corporation—Improving ABC local radio coverage of Dubbo, Geelong and Wagga Wagga and their surrounding areas

The Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan, today announced the 2005–06 Federal Budget will provide funding for improved ABC Local Radio coverage for Dubbo, Geelong, Wagga Wagga and their surrounding areas, subject to the availability of suitable spectrum capacity.

“ABC Local Radio provides its listeners with a distinctive mix of news, views, current affairs, talkback, entertainment, sport, music, and rural issues,” Senator Coonan said.

“The Budget funding will enable the ABC to enhance the coverage currently provided by the existing Local Radio Wagga Wagga service (via a power increase) and establish new Local Radio services at Dubbo and Geelong,” Senator Coonan said.

“While Dubbo and Geelong presently receive Local Radio services transmitted to the Central Western Slopes and greater Melbourne transmission areas, reception is affected by electrical interference and difficult terrain.”

The Australian Broadcasting Authority (ABA) has already confirmed that there is sufficient capacity to proceed with the enhancement to the existing Wagga Wagga service.  It is anticipated that the Wagga Wagga enhancement will be completed in 2006, along with the extension of NewsRadio to this area.

he ABA is currently determining whether capacity is available for the Dubbo and Geelong services and a formal announcement will be made once further advice is received from the ABC and ABA.

MEDIA CONTACT: Jane McMillan 0438 690 305