Australia’s Seven and Ten to launch HD channels

Australia’s Seven Network and Network Ten are to launch free-to-view high-definition television (HDTV) channels in December.
Australia recently changed the media law to allow broadcasters to operate both SD and HD services in 2009, with separate programming rather than than the simulcast only rule which applied before.
Seven Network CEO David Leckie said its new channel would help drive take-up of digital television. “Our plan is to build on our leadership position in Australian drama, sport, news and entertainment and establish a broad multiple channel presence to further develop the strength of the free-to-air digital platform over the coming three years.”
Network Ten said its Ten-HD channel would offer “more choice, in the highest possible broadcast quality, for free”. Network Ten CEO Grant Blackley, said: “Ten-HD will excite and entertain audiences across Australia like never before. We are no longer bound by a single linear channel, and Ten-HD is a natural next step in our goal to make our content as widely available as possible to consumers.”
Source: DTG website
Item added: 18th September 2007