The Albanese Government has delivered legislation that enables continued access to television broadcasting services in remote and regional Australia.
The Communications Legislation Amendment (Regional Broadcasting Continuity) Bill 2024 removes regulatory impediments so that more Australians can access the taxpayer-funded Viewer Access Satellite Television (VAST) service, and broadcasters can move to more efficient transmission arrangements.
VAST is a safety-net service that provides access to broadcasting services for audiences in regional and remote areas. The Bill empowers the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to declare an area to be 'service-deficient', which will allow audiences in the area to access services via satellite, should they wish to do so.
Broadcasters are able to save costs by managing their transmission networks more efficiently and use less spectrum, while continuing to deliver high quality services to their audiences. The Bill adjusts the broadcasting regulatory framework to allow television broadcasters the flexibility to innovate and consolidate their transmission arrangements.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
"Television broadcasting connects Australians living in regional and remote areas with news, entertainment and sports.
"This legislation enables broadcasters to find more efficient ways to provide their services, and expands audience access to the taxpayer-funded satellite broadcasting safety-net service.
"The Albanese Government committed to ensuring that all Australians have equitable access to media services, regardless of financial means or location, and this includes quality television broadcasting services."
