Rudd Regime Boosts Digital TV

Click to enlarge

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.
Additionally, an Industry Advisory Group will be established, bringing together broadcasters, retailers, manufacturers, antenna technicians, public and commercial housing agencies as well as government departments.
“The analog 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.