1. Check whether digital TV is available in your area

Digital TV is currently available in most areas. To find out the exact status of the digital signal in your area, contact your local television station or use mySwitch.

2. Check what equipment you will need

If you have an analog TV, you can connect it to a set top box or a digital TV recorder to enable you to receive digital TV. You can also upgrade to a television with an integrated digital tuner. If you already have a high definition set-top box, digital TV recorder or an integrated digital TV set up, you should be able to receive all available digital channels in your area.

If you have or are planning to get subscription TV you can find out more about being digital ready in the FAQs.

3. Choose your equipment

If you are buying a new TV, set-top box or digital TV recorder, and want to receive all available channels in your area, you will need to choose a product with a high definition television receiver.

Retailers participating in the Australian Government Retail Advisor Scheme will have approved digital advisors who can provide you with more information. Approved digital advisors have completed an assessment and will wear a badge displaying the Government's 'Get Ready for digital TV' logo, their name and when their digital advisor status expires. Approved digital advisors can provide you with information about when switchover will happen in your local area, as well as the full range of options to get digital ready.

You can find your nearest approved digital advisor on mySwitch.

4. Troubleshooting

  • Check your cables are in good condition and connected properly.
  • If you use an internal antenna, you may need to replace it with an external antenna to get a reliable digital signal. 
  • If you still have reception problems, you may need to contact an antenna installer and have your antenna system checked. Information about the Australian Government Antenna Installer Endorsement Scheme is available in the FAQs.
  • You can find your nearest endorsed antenna installer on mySwitch.
  • If you still can't receive your local digital TV channels from existing terrestrial transmitters, you may be eligible for a satellite service. More information is available in FAQs.
  • If you live in or own a unit or apartment, you may be receiving TV reception from a shared antenna system. In some cases your building may require an upgrade or installation of a new shared antenna system. This can take time for the strata committee to resolve, so it is best to start planning now.
  • If you rent your home and need an external antenna or if you live in a flat or apartment with a shared antenna system, you should consult your landlord, strata committee or owners' corporation if any changes are needed to your antenna set-up.

5. Disposing of your old equipment

Most analog TVs will be able to receive digital TV if the analog TV is connected to a set top box or digital TV recorder. So unless your analog TV is very old (and not able to be connected to a set top box or digital TV recorder) you won’t have to replace it unless you want to. Find out more about eWaste and your recycling options below.

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