1 March 2005

Minister Congratulates SBS on its Ashes Win

Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan, today congratulated SBS after the national broadcaster secured the free-to-air rights to the Ashes cricket series to be played later this year.

"I know that there has been a lot of angst in the community about whether the Ashes series would be broadcast on free-to-air television," Senator Coonan said.

"So today's announcement by SBS is a great outcome for cricket fans and for SBS. I also commend the ABC for its efforts to secure the free-to-air broadcast rights to the Ashes."

The Ashes will now be shown on both Fox Sports and SBS - catering to a range of audiences.

"While the acquisition of broadcast rights is a commercial decision for the relevant broadcasters, it is pleasing that both a pay-TV provider and free-to-air broadcaster will now show the Ashes series," Senator Coonan said.

Media Contact:   Jane McMillan  0438 690 305