Access to the satellite DTV services was reviewed by the government in June 2012, resulting in a less bureaucratic method of applying and receiving approval to access FTA (Free To Air) commercial DTV services via Optus satellite -it was given the name VAST. 

So what is VAST and how can it help me receive perfect quality Digital TV reception? 

The VAST system is a package of TV networks encoded using Irdeto which requires a receiver utilising SMART CARD  to decode the package for viewing on a digital television receiver.  The networks within the package are ABC,SBS, SEVEN, TCN and TEN.  The commercial services as above are provided by the regional networks of Central Australia e.g. Imparja, as is the case for regional TV, the programming closely follows the Metropolitan networks. 

So this all means that if the VAST signal is received by a satellite dish and connected to a VAST compliant satellite receiver, then, DTV programs from the five national networks can be viewed basically from anywhere in Australia. 

This system now makes it possible for viewers who are either; in a BLACKSPOT FOR DTV or TRAVELLING to receive DTV.  For further information regarding VAST program content and accessibility please go to www.digitalready.gov.au