Media Release

2000 households in Mildura helped to make the switch to digital TV

Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy today announced that the 2000th eligible household in Mildura had received help converting to digital TV under the Government’s Household Assistance Scheme.

Senator Conroy said today’s announcement reflects the enthusiasm of the Mildura community to be digital ready with only 55 days remaining until the Sunraysia region fully switches to digital TV on June 30.

"Mr Frank Jamieson’s residence in Merbein, near Mildura, is the 2000th household to be successfully converted to digital TV under the Government’s Household Assistance Scheme," Senator Conroy said.

"Mr Jamieson will now be able to enjoy much better picture and sound quality, and more channels," Senator Conroy said. "Previously he had only received the four analog channels but he now has access to 16 channels of digital TV."

Mr Jamieson said he was particularly looking forward to watching the news, documentaries and football in high definition digital quality.

Senator Conroy said the Government was aware that some people may require help to switch to digital television.

"This is why we have put in place the Household Assistance Scheme – firstly for the Mildura TV licence area and then for eligible households in the next regions to make the switch to digital-only television.

"The scheme involves a government contractor visiting an eligible household to supply, install and demonstrate a high-definition set-top box – specifically chosen to ensure that it meets the needs of the elderly and people with a disability – and conduct any necessary antenna and cabling work if required," Senator Conroy said.

Senator Conroy said a household is eligible for the scheme where they own a functioning TV, do not already have access to digital TV and at least one resident is in receipt of the maximum rate of the:

• Age Pension,
• Disability Support Pension,
• Carer Payment, or
• Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Service Pension or the DVA income-support supplement payment.

Eligible households would have already received at least one letter inviting them to participate in the Household Assistance Scheme.

"Time is running out to be fully ready for the digital switchover in June so I would urge those households in Mildura who believe they are eligible for assistance to contact the Household Assistance Scheme Information Line on 1800 556 443," Senator Conroy said.

Date: 7 May 2010
Contact: Suzie Brady 0408 258 457