Press Release from TVS
Community Television channels will be included in the Freeview Electronic Program Guide (EPG) when they commence digital transmission, according to the Australian Community Television Alliance (ACTA).
"The Freeview directors recently voted unanimously to include Community Television in their proprietary EPG," said ACTA Secretary and TVS Chief Executive, Laurie Patton.
Inclusion in the Freeview EPG will dramatically increase the profile of community channels. "When people go to choose what to watch they will see our program line-up alongside all the others," Mr Patton said.
"All the research, by the Australian Communications and Media Authority and others, shows that one of the key ‘drivers’ for people contemplating going digital is the opportunity to receive extra channels," Mr Patton added.
ACTA has held very positive discussions with the Government and is awaiting a decision on the allocation of digital spectrum for the Community Television channels.
Joining the other free-to-air channels on a digital platform will really be a "coming of age" for Community Television, Mr Patton concluded.