Australia’s free-to-air commercial television networks together with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation recently announced the establishment of the "Freeview" consortium.
It has been formed to kick-start the sluggish take-up of free-to-air digital television in Australia.
The consortium includes the ABC, SBS, the Seven Network, the Nine Network, Network Ten, Prime, WIN and Southern Cross. The ABC’s Director of Television, Kim Dalton, will Chair the non profit organisation.
Dalton says Freeview will work towards making sure that all Australians continue to enjoy the range of programming offered by free-to-air broadcasters as Australia moves from analogue to the digital platform.
“This is an extraordinary step forward for the free-to-air broadcasters. Together we have pioneered digital television in Australia, investing millions in infrastructure and converting our equipment and studios accordingly. Now it’s time for Australians to reap the rewards; Freeview will offer viewers more channels, great content and the very best quality picture and sound,” said Dalton.
From 2009, legislation will allow the commercial free-to-air networks each to broadcast an additional standard definition (SD) channel, as well as their existing SD channels, and their new high definition (HD) channels. The three new channels, plus the two ABC and two SBS channels and their respective HD channels, will bring the number of channels to be promoted by Freeview to fifteen.
Viewers will need a High Definition digital-set-top box, digital video recorder or an integrated digital television to watch Freeview
The consortium will be launching an education campaign to ensure viewers are ready for when the new channels become available .
Prior to the launch, Freeview will work with manufacturers to ensure appropriate technical standards are met on all television equipment that will carry the Freeview logo.
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