"The discussion paper proposes legislative amendments required to develop a phased, region-by-region timetable to deliver the switchover to digital television," Senator Conroy said.
"Providing greater flexibility in the legislation is an important factor in implementing a switchover timetable that addresses the various issues affecting digital switchover in Australia."
"This is another strong step towards meeting the Government's election commitment to achieve digital television switchover by the end of 2013," Senator Conroy said.
The discussion paper canvasses options as to how a switchover timetable should be implemented and managed to ensure Australia meets the 31 December 2013 digital switchover deadline.
Currently the Broadcasting Services Act does not provide for the simulcast period to be shortened, any digital television switchover timetable could not presently include switchover dates for non-remote regional areas before either 31 March 2011 or 31 December 2011 however there is speculation that the switchover timetable could be shortened with one option being canvassed is a phased in switch over by State and Region.
