Regional viewers facing the loss of Network 10’s free to air services have been handed a three month reprieve, with WIN and Paramount agreeing to extend broadcasts while negotiations continue.
The agreement will keep Network 10 channels on air in Riverland, Mount Gambier and Griffith until 30 September, delaying a planned switch off that was due to take effect tomorrow and was first revealed by TV Blackbox in May.
The extension follows WIN’s decision to cease broadcasting Network 10 channels in the three markets after the parties were unable to reach agreement, with both sides now using the additional time to pursue a longer term solution.
When the planned switch off was announced in May, Network 10 criticised WIN’s decision, describing it as an “unfair disruption” for regional viewers while calling on the Federal Government to continue supporting regional broadcasters.
Under the short term agreement, TV Blackbox understands Network 10 will provide its programming free of charge and cover WIN’s transmission costs until 30 September, despite receiving no advertising or other revenue from the affected markets.
In a statement, a WIN spokesperson said the extension provides time to address the broader structural challenges facing regional broadcasting.
“We have agreed on three months to attempt to find a path forward and address the structural challenges in parts of regional Australia that have brought us to this point.”
The broadcaster argued the issues extend beyond a commercial dispute between the two companies and require long term industry and government support.
In response to questions from TV Blackbox, a Network 10 spokesperson said the broadcaster remains committed to regional audiences and will continue working with WIN to keep its content available in the affected markets.
“Network 10 remains committed to regional Australian audiences and will continue to explore every opportunity with WIN to keep our content as widely available as possible.”
The agreement also comes amid growing industry calls for the Federal Government to progress the proposed News Media Bargaining Incentive as part of wider reforms to support Australia’s media sector.
Both parties now have until 30 September to negotiate a longer term solution for viewers in Riverland, Mount Gambier and Griffith.
I am terribly disappointed with my favourite 10Bold not being available to people like myself.
I live alone on a disability pension struggling with money.
I hope that the Federal government will help our 3 regions.
I can’t afford to buy programs that people like us may need to do.
I love all ncis episodes plus fbi. Please help us out. Regards Heather