Satellite Subsidy Scheme Installations resume
The Digital Switchover Taskforce has resumed installations under the Satellite Subsidy Scheme from Saturday 15 October.
The Digital Switchover Taskforce temporarily suspended installations under the Satellite Subsidy Scheme on 23 September in response to indications that some installations may have been undertaken in some Queensland Department of Education and Training (DET) housing where asbestos containing material (ACM) was present.
The health and safety of residents and installers is of paramount importance to both the Queensland and Australian Governments.
During the temporary suspension the Digital Switchover Taskforce in consultation with the Queensland Government undertook a precautionary clean in 29 DET residences where installations occurred and where ACM was either confirmed or presumed.
The Taskforce has also required the SSS lead contractors to update their safe work methods for installing, with appropriate precautions, satellite TV systems into households presumed to contain asbestos. Contractors also undertook further training of installers to ensure that they complied with the practices required by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland.
In addition, the Digital Switchover Taskforce has engaged the services of KPMG to assess the current approval and risk management processes for the Satellite Subsidy Scheme and acted on its recommendation for improvements.
Households that have applied for an installation will be contacted by the contractors to arrange an installation time.
All eligible residences will be fitted with satellite reception equipment prior to the switch off of analog television signals in regional Queensland on 6 December 2011 and remote Queensland in the second half of 2013.
To find out more about the Scheme or Digital Switchover visit www.digitalready.gov.au or call the Digital Ready Information Line 1800 20 10 13.
Contact: media@dbcde.gov.au
02 6271 1777
