Digital radio services will begin in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth in the first half of 2009. Digital radio will provide a platform for Australians to have superior sound quality, greater listening choice, as well as a new visual aspect to radio with the introduction of scrolling news, sport, traffic and weather text and the ability to transmit a picture of a radio host or band, the cover of a CD or an animated logo on screen, says Commercial Radio Australia.

Additional information such as detailed traffic reports and traveller information can also be streamed as data directly to satellite navigation systems or portable navigation devices.

Sentinel, an Australian live content and service provision company, has been working with CRA since March this year to access and develop the first live Australian demonstration of traffic reports and other traveller information broadcast over Transport Protocol Experts Group (TPEG) Traffic using digital radio technology.

With the rising cost of motoring and transport services, having access to LIVE and real-time information about traffic congestion, latest petrol prices and journey planning will save Australian commuters and businesses time and money.
"We offer more than just traffic information" says Sentinel Content's General Manager, Danny Woolard.  "Through the next generation of digital radios, the information we can provide to people on the move will allow them to plan the best time to leave and what route to take to a destination, taking into account traffic incidents, road-works, travel times and road safety information.

"You will also get real-time petrol pricing, not just where you are, but where you are going. And when you get there you can get information ahead of time about how many parking spots are left in a car park as well as accommodation pricing and vacancies."

Sentinel has been working with German technology partner GEWI, to deliver the technical TPEG Digital Radio standard.  With their joint experience they have been extensively involved in the development of the new broadcast data service standards and deployments of traffic services. The new Australian service uses a similar technology platform which is proven and widely deployed throughout Europe.