The Satellite Subsidy Scheme (SSS) provides a subsidy for eligible households to switch to satellite TV via the Viewer Access Satellite Television Service (VAST). The SSS is not available in metropolitan markets.
If your household relies on an analog TV signal from a self-help transmission tower that is not going to be converted to digital TV, you may be eligible for the subsidy.
You cannot apply for the Satellite Subsidy Scheme until applications open in your area.
Where is the SSS rolling out next?
Southern NSW
Applications open: 10 January 2012
Applications close: 30 April 2012
Household contribution: $220
Remote South Australia
Applications open: 30 January 2012
Applications close: 31 May 2012
Household contribution: $220
Northern NSW
Applications open: 1 June 2012
Applications close: 10 August 2012
Household contribution: $220
For a list of towns in these areas see Related information below.
Where has the SSS previously rolled out
Regional South Australia
Applications opened: 15 July 2010
Applications closed: 31 October 2010
Regional Victoria
Applications opened: 5 November 2010
Applications closed: 15 April 2011
Regional and Remote Queensland
Applications open: 30 May 2011
Applications closed: 2 October 2011
Future SSS roll outs
- Northern Territory | Second half 2012
- Tasmania | Second half 2012
- Western Australia | Second half 2012
The Satellite Subsidy Scheme in these areas has been postponed to 2012 to enable a more efficient rollout of the SSS and to allow councils and self-help licensees more time to prepare for the transition to VAST satellite TV.
Households in identified SSS Remote Indigenous Communities do not need to apply through the website or the Digital Ready Information Line. Further information about arranging installation of VAST satellite television equipment will be available locally in the community closer to the SSS roll out.
Related information