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Digital television update
By Stephanie Jolly
Digital television services started in mainland capital cities in 2001, and they are now being rolled out in regional areas.
Already more than half a million Australian households are viewing TV in one of the new digital formats. More than 60 set-top box models are currently on the market, along with more than 15 models of integrated digital TV sets.
An estimated 80 per cent of Australians have access to digital services from all local free-to-air broadcasters, while around 90 per cent of the population have access to at least one digital service.
All broadcasters are currently required to simulcast their analogue programming in standard definition digital TV, as well as simulcast a small amount of high definition (HDTV) programming. In addition, the national broadcasters, ABC and SBS, are permitted to multichannel—provide additional digital channels—in a range of programming genres.
SBS currently offers two extra digital-only services: SBS Essential, an electronic programming guide for the SBS main channel, and the SBS World News channel.
The ABC launched ABC 2, a second digital-only channel, in March 2005. The new channel features children's programming, documentaries, arts programs and regional news.
Further details on digital television broadcasting can be found on the DCITA website www.dcita.gov.au/broad