John Faulkner (NSW, Australian Labor Party, Cabinet Secretary) Share this | Hansard source

It is funny you should say that, Senator Minchin, because you are right. I am aware that digital radio will launch in 2009. I am aware that it will operate alongside existing analog services and that it promises a range of new and innovative features that will enhance the radio services so valued by Australians.

As Senator Minchin has encouraged me to speak about this important issue, I thought I would indicate to the Senate that the first two amendments in the bill relate to the commencement date for digital radio in the six state capital cities—as Senator Minchin would be aware. Under current legislation, commercial radio broadcasters in these markets are required to commence digital radio services by 1 January 2009. Failure to do so could expose them to sanctions, including the cancellation of their right to broadcast in digital. I can say to the Senate and, through you, Madam Acting Deputy President, particularly to Senator Minchin, that, due to a range of reasons, including delays to the rollout of transmission equipment, broadcasters are unable to comply with this deadline. As a result, the commercial radio sector and the ABC recently announced that the national switch-on for digital radio will take place on 1 May 2009. Accordingly, the bill will extend by six months the deadline for start-up to 1 July 2009. Senators would be aware that this will ensure broadcasters are not in breach of current provisions for late commencement, including the cancellation of their right to broadcast in digital.

The bill will also remove Hobart from the list of markets subject to the new deadline. After consultation with Hobart’s commercial broadcasters, who expressed strong concerns about their readiness to launch at the same time as the mainland state capitals, the bill will allow digital radio services to start in Hobart at the same time as other similarly sized markets, such as Newcastle, Geelong and Wollongong.

Perhaps I could now turn, particularly for the interest of Senator Minchin, to the final measure in the bill. This measure amends the Radiocommunications Act 1992 and extends to the community broadcasting sector, which Senator Minchin dealt with in his informative speech in the second reading debate, the opportunity to participate in the joint venture companies formed in 2008 that own digital radio transmission infrastructure, in line with the original intent of the legislation introduced in May last year. The government is supportive of the community broadcasters participation in digital radio, recognising the vital role the community sector plays in providing diversity, localism and grassroots participation in the Australian media. The benefits of digital radio to both broadcasters and listeners are enormous and the government looks forward to a successful launch of Australia’s first digital radio services on 1 May 2009.

In conclusion, I ought to acknowledge the presence in the chamber of Senator Conroy, the minister who knows more about this issue than either I or Senator Minchin. I am very pleased that Senator Conroy has listened to this debate as closely as he has. I commend this important legislation to the Senate.

Question agreed to.

Bill read a second time.