Broadcasting Services Amendment (Community Television) 2024

# Broadcasting Services Amendment (Community Television) 2024 ## What it does This law makes changes to how community television stations access the radio spectrum they need to broadcast. It clarifies what happens to their broadcasting licenses if their transmitter licenses get cancelled, and sets up a framework for community TV services to continue having access to broadcasting frequencies in their local areas. ## Why it matters Community television stations serve local audiences with programs that commercial broadcasters often won't carry. These changes protect their ability to keep operating without losing their license automatically if technical transmitter issues occur, which means local communities keep access to independent broadcasting. ## Key details - **License protection**: If a community TV station's transmitter license is cancelled, the main broadcasting license will also be cancelled at the same time—rather than being left in legal limbo. This creates clarity about their status. - **Spectrum access**: The law guarantees that community broadcasting services and educational non-profit television services can continue to use designated broadcast frequencies in their areas until a new date is set by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). - **Effective immediately**: The law takes effect the day after it receives Royal Assent, with no delayed implementation period.

🔒 Voting closed — this bill has been decided by parliament