Network Ten has announced it will launch its high definition channel on December 16.
Ten-HD will deliver 50 hours of original programming each week, as well as time-shifting some programmes from its main channel.
Live sport will feature extensively on the new digital channel virtually every day from February next year the network said, with Nascar, NFL and the World Golf Championships all set to be shown.
The Seven Network has already begun running limited content on its HD channel, with plans to ramp up coverage early next year.
Ten’s locally produced shows for 2008 include an Australian version of So You Think You Can Dance, to be hosted by Natalie Bassingthwaighte, along with Kenny’s World Toilet Tour, and factual show Saving Kids fronted by Australian Idol winner Damien Leith which tells stories of courage and hope.
Reality shows, The Biggest Loser, Big Brother and Australian Idol are also set to return, with changes expected to be made in the in the later two in an attempt to reverse declining audience numbers.
Sunday night talk show Rove will also be back after host Rove McManus extended his contract with the network for another two years.
