The government has found that almost half of Australian households have switched to digital TV and are enjoying its benefits.

The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy said, “The results of the Government’s first Digital Tracker Survey show more Australians are making the switch to digital television and enjoying the experience. Digital television means better picture quality and sound, new content and new channels such as the ONE 24 hour sports channel and the upcoming ABC children’s channel.”

“Switchover to digital television is our biggest national format change since the swap to decimal currency and it is important that Australia get ready. The Digital Tracker Survey shows progress to date,” added Conroy.

According to the Digital Tracker Survey, 47% of Australian households have converted to free-to-air digital TV broadcasts, 69% of households highlighted the benefits of switching to digital such as better picture, more channels and improved reception, and 64% of households know how to convert a TV to receive digital broadcasts.

“The Rudd Government is working to ensure people understand how simple and inexpensive it is to get ready for digital television. This research will assist greatly to target our efforts. Additional funding of almost $140 million over three years was announced in the Budget to help Australia to get ready for digital television,” concluded Conroy.

See the full report here.