Freeview Digital TV Platform Launch

Abdul Aziz · #1 25-11-2008, 11:53 PM

Freeview Digital TV Platform Launch

Good evening everyone.

It is a pleasure to be with you for the launch of Freeview.

Tonight’s function is a very exciting milestone in Australia’s progression towards a digital switchover.

I welcome the establishment of Freeview and its ability to promote digital television and to help drive digital take‑up.

The Rudd Government is committed to the roll out of digital TV, which commenced in Australia in 2001, and requires action if we are to realise the full benefits.

We have announced a considered, strategic approach to achieve analogue switch-off by the 31st of December 2013.

We have worked closely with broadcasters to establish a switchover timetable — a timetable which will assist to create an environment, where we have the smoothest possible transition to digital TV.

We have also committed funds for a range of switchover initiatives.

These include research – to measure digital up-take, and to examine digital TV reception and reception issues in multi-dwelling units.

However, digital switchover is not the sole responsibility of government — broadcasters also have an instrumental role to play.

Put simply, digital is the future of broadcasting.

It will allow broadcasters to provide better quality television.

It will also provide more content choice for viewers.

Experience tells us that ‘content’ is a major driver of digital TV take‑up.

We know that the most successful digital TV outcomes overseas have been achieved where viewers have been offered enhanced content choices.

Indeed, with many more entertainment and media options (including online) now available for consumption, consumers rightfully expect more ‘content’ choice.

Freeview promises to enhance the choice and functionality available on digital free-to-air television.

It also provides a focus for new digital content from the free‑to‑air broadcasters, and will help to drive digital take‑up as we move towards digital-only broadcasting by the end of 2013.

The Government is also aware that there is much work to be done in order for Australia to complete the transition to digital television.

To date, less than 50 per cent of households have turned on to digital free‑to‑air TV.

The Digital Switchover Taskforce is:

* working with industry to increase awareness in the community;

* helping people to plan and prepare for digital-only television; and

* ensuring consistent messages are delivered to consumers about digital television as we move towards switchover.

The Taskforce looks forward – as I do myself – to working with all stakeholders — including Freeview — to see that these expectations are met.

I congratulate free‑to‑air television on its launch of Freeview.

This is an initiative that will help to demonstrate some of the truly exciting benefits of digital TV for the Australian viewing public.

Thank you.

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