Senate Standing Committee on Environment, Communications and the Arts
Question No.90

Senator Ludlam asked:
The Government has appropriated $795m for just ABC and SBS digital and analog distribution and transmission operational expenses for the next three years.

When is it going to provide digital TV spectrum and relevant funding to NITV and Capital City Community TV for digital TV distribution and transmission?

Answer:
The Government is aware of the community television sector's need to convert to digital and is considering its approach to this digital conversion.

The community television sector receives significant support through continued access to free spectrum, which is a valuable public resource.

The government has met with the Australian Community Television Alliance (ACTA) and several of the individual stations a number of times, and continue to consult them on the options available for their transition to digital.

The National Indigenous Television Service is the responsibility of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts Portfolio.