Following the announcement in 2008, the Federal Government’s switchover is now well and truly underway. At the moment, there is a simulcast service in place where both digital and analogue television channels are available at the same time. This is so home owners can still access the analogue television channels, even if they haven’t purchased a set top box or haven’t switched to a digital television. As digital becomes more popular, the existing analogue services will gradually be removed until it can no longer be accessed.

The Rudd government’s region-by-region approach to the digital switchover aims to ensure that Australia is best placed to meet the December 2013 deadline set for analogue switch-off. Many Australians can enjoy the numerous benefits of digital television reception, including clearer pictures, digital audio, widescreen resolution and new content through vehicles such as Channel One, the 24 hour HD sports network.