Free TV Australia welcomes government consultation on television future

Free TV Australia has expressed support for a new Australian Federal Government consultation regarding the future delivery of free-to-air television. Launched by Communications Minister Anika Wells in Canberra, the discussion paper, titled ‘Technology scenarios for free-to-air television’, outlines three medium- to long-term technological scenarios.

The consultation seeks input on the future balance between broadcast and online delivery, spectrum usage, and the investment required to maintain the sector. Free TV Australia CEO Bridget Fair emphasized that the interests of the 20 million Australians who watch free TV weekly must remain the priority, particularly for those in regional and remote areas who rely on universal access.

The announcement coincided with the release of research from Deloitte Access Economics. The report highlights the economic and cultural significance of commercial television, describing it as a trusted news source and a shared civic space that contributes billions of dollars to the Australian economy.