The launch of high definition television channels by the Seven and Ten networks has reignited the pay TV lobby's ongoing battle against anti-siphoning rules, with Nine soon to announce its HDTV channel launch.
A spokeswoman told B&T Nine had "plans in place", but would not confirm a launch date.
The anti-siphoning laws, which allow the FTA networks first pick of live sporting events, have long been a bone of contention for the pay TV industry.
“If the free-to-airs are allowed to move into our area of multi-channelling, then why should we have restrictions which restrict our business?" Foxtel corporate affairs manager Rebecca Melkman asked.
HDTV will allow broadcasters to offer viewers alternative programming and themed events such as live sports, broadcast with high quality pictures. And while events on the anti-siphoning list need to be shown on the networks' core channels, once the HD channels launch in December, they will be able to be viewed concurrently on both channels.
Ian Garland, commercial director of pay TV lobby group ASTRA, said the developments have strengthened its argument for a level playing field when negotiating the broadcast of sporting events He said while ASTRA welcomed the launches, as "multi-channelling is good for everyone", it wants a "level regulatory playing field".
For more on this story see the latest issue of B&T (21 September).
