Why is the Government switching off the analog signals?

Currently, analog and digital broadcasts are transmitted side by side. This process is costly and inefficient and uses most of what is known as the 'broadcast spectrum' – or the space that's available for terrestrial television broadcasts. Turning off analog signals will free up a considerable amount of the spectrum so that it can be used for additional services.

Digital technology is being adopted all over the world, and it’s important that Australia keeps pace with global technological advances. Because digital technology is replacing analog, the equipment being produced globally (such as television production equipment, digital recording and playback equipment, and televisions) is now only compatible with digital formats. Before long, analog TV equipment will no longer be available in Australia.