About Freeview

We get asked about digital television and Freeview all the time. So, we've compiled for you a list of the most commonly asked questions to help with everything you need to know.

What is Freeview?

Freeview is the free digital television service in Australia. Freeview brings you all your existing favourite TV channels, plus extra TV channels, for free! That’s great channels like ABC1, ABC2, ABC3, ABC News 24, SBS ONE, SBS TWO, SBS HD, Seven, 7TWO, 7mate, Nine, GO!, GEM, TEN, ONE & ELEVEN. So if you love TV, you’ll really love Freeview.

Is it really FREE?

Yes – Freeview is the free-to-view TV service. Once you have digital-capable equipment, it’s free. No contracts, no fees, no ongoing costs.

Why am I being asked to switch to Freeview?

Between 2010 and 2013, the analogue free-to-view TV signals in Australia will be switched off and replaced with digital-only signals. Once the analogue signal has been turned off, the only way for Australians to continue watching their favourite TV shows for free, is to switch from analogue to Freeview digital television.

For more information on the switchover, go to the Digital Switchover Taskforce website at www.digitalready.gov.au 'Digital' refers to the way in which content is transmitted from the TV stations to your TV. It uses technology that has benefits over the analogue transmission system, including:

You get MORE CHANNELS! Digital is a more efficient broadcasting mechanism, so the networks can squeeze more channels into the same space.
Better sound and picture quality.
And best of all, it’s FREE*

What are the new channels I'll get?

If you’re currently watching analogue TV, you will receive a maximum of 5 channels. In metropolitan areas, these channels include ABC1, SBS ONE, Seven, Nine and TEN. When you switch to Freeview digital television, you will receive up to 10 more channels.

The additional channels available include:

Offers premium sport, HD factual programs and movies, and action and adventure.
ABC for Kids on 2 entertains pre-schoolers during the day time. In the evening, ABC2 provides adult contemporary programming including comedy, drama and documentaries.
A commercial-free dedicated kids channel created for 6-12 year olds.
Offers 24 hour, commercial-free coverage of national and breaking news.
Features more stories from here and around the world.
Brings you the very best of British television, comedies and movies.
Offers first-run comedies, reality and movies for the guys. It’s man’s best friend.
An entertainment channel for the young and young at heart.
A general entertainment and movie channel.
A premium entertainment channel for the distinctly youthful.

How do I get Freeview?

If you have an analogue or standard definition television, you will need to purchase a HD set-top-box, personal video recorder (PVR), or home entertainment console that has both PVR and digital tuner capabilities, such as a PS3TM with PlayTVTMattached. Otherwise, you can purchase a HD integrated digital television to replace your existing TV. If you already have a HD digital television, you are already enjoying the benefits of Freeview.

Some manufacturers offer equipment which has the added capability of being able to receive the Freeview Electronic Program Guide (EPG). These products will also give you access to the full suite of Freeview channels (both SD and HD channels). Only products that feature this Freeview EPG logo will receive the Freeview EPG:

To learn more about the Freeview EPG, including the features and benefits, visit www.freeview.com.au/epg