Media Release

Government launches $37.9 million strategy to boost digital TV

Australia 's digital television switchover today received a boost with the announcement by Senator Stephen Conroy of a $37.9 million strategy to drive Australia 's transition to digital TV.

The strategy will ensure that Australia meets the deadline set for digital switchover - 31 December 2013.

The strategy comprises:

• $8.5 million for the Australian Communications and Media Authority to undertake technical switchover-related projects, including an evaluation of digital TV transmission and reception throughout Australia.
• $4.8 million for a ‘Digital Tracker' to assess issues such as public awareness of digital switchover, intention of households to convert and actual conversion rates.
• $1 million over two years for research into digital reception problems in multi-unit dwellings with a shared TV antenna system.
• $6.7 million for a logo and labelling scheme to clearly indicate which products are digitally ready, ensuring Australian consumers can be informed and confident about what products will suit their needs.
• $16.9 million for the Digital Switchover Taskforce, which will coordinate the switchover program within the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy.

“The Australian Government is committed to digital television and this funding will help drive a smooth transition,” Senator Conroy said.

Additionally, an Industry Advisory Group has been established, bringing together broadcasters, retailers, manufacturers, antenna technicians, public and commercial housing agencies as well as government departments. The first meeting of the IAG will be convened on 9 April 2008.

“The Government's Digital Switchover Taskforce, headed by Mr Andy Townend, will work with the Industry Advisory Group on a range of issues, including the provision of reliable information to consumers when purchasing digital TV equipment,” Senator Conroy said.

“We need to use the valuable expertise of retailers to provide expert and consistent advice to consumers on what digital solution will best suit their needs.”

“The analogue to digital switchover could well be the largest change on a national scale since the introduction of decimal currency in 1966. It will affect every household and every TV receiver in the nation, including those in VCRs and other recorders,” Senator Conroy said.

“These initiatives will ensure Australia completes digital switchover by 31 December 2013.”

More information on the digital switchover program can be found at www.digitalswitchover.gov.au

26 March 2008
Contact: Tim Marshall 0408 258 457