[Greens-Media] Supporting Community Broadcasting into the Digital World

[Norton, Tim (Sen R. Siewert)]

Supporting Community Broadcasting into the Digital World
Tuesday 14th October 2008
 
Significant increase in community radio listener numbers announced today
shows the importance of supporting community radio during the transition
to digital broadcasting, say the Australian Greens.
 
"The Australian community radio sector is a vibrant and growing industry
in this country, and it is important that we ensure they are not left
behind in the switch-over to digital transmission," said Australian
Greens communication spokesperson Senator Scott Ludlam.
 
"The Greens will support legislation later this week that extends the
opportunity for the community radio sector to become shareholders in the
joint venture companies (JVC's) that control the licenses to be used on
the digital spectrum."
 
"Including community radio broadcasters in the JVC's goes towards
ensuring the viability of the stations and the sector, because although
the sector is guaranteed access to the digital spectrum, buying into the
JVC will provide them with a seat at the decision making table upon
which they rely," said Senator Ludlam.
 
The Community Broadcasting Association of Australia released figures
today that show over 9.5 million Australians now tune into community
radio every month, 57% of the population, up from 47% two years ago.
 
"The 358 community radio stations operating around Australia are a vital
and - as today's figures clearly show - popular community service,"
Senator Ludlam said. 
 
"They provide a diverse range of specialist programming; an avenue for
local and alternative music, arts and culture; a training ground for new
professionals in the sector, with over 20,000 active volunteers
nation-wide; and a community forum for local issues and areas of
interest," he concluded. 
 
For more information or media enquiries please call Tim Norton on 0418
401 180
senator.ludlam at aph.gov.au  |  www.scottludlam.org.au  |
www.greensmps.org.au