‘The 12th of December marks an important milestone in Australian broadcasting, and in our nation’s history.’ – SBS Managing Director, Michael Ebeid
National Indigenous Television (NITV) begins broadcasting on SBS4 digital television from 12 December 2012. NITV will televise content about Indigenous Australians, produced by Indigenous Australians, to every Australian household.
Why so important? It’s important because first Australian’s are being given an opportunity to reach a broader audience through free-to-air broadcasting. It’s important because every Australian is being given an opportunity to learn more about the rich diversity of Indigenous culture, language and custom. It’s important because it’s an opportunity to foster and harness the talents of Indigenous writers, directors, journalists and producers.
NITV began operating in 2007 with barely two hours of air time per week dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander programming. By the end of 2007, NITV was being broadcast on Foxtel, Austar and Optus. Since its humble origins, NITV now employs approximately 50 Australians, 70 per cent of which are Indigenous.
NITV is part of the SBS family of free-to-air channels broadcasting across Australia. However it maintains its own autonomy and editorial responsibility, utilising the talents of Indigenous writers, directors and journalists to produce content covering a variety of genres, including music, health, sport, news, current affairs, culture and children’s programs.
NITV will mark its free-to-air launch on 12 December 2012 with a day of special programming televised from Uluru. The official ‘switch on’ will occur at midday, with Aboriginal traditional owners welcoming audiences from around the nation.
The launch will be capped off as the sunsets over Uluru with a live concert from some of Australia’s best Indigenous talent including Jessica Mauboy, Christine Anu, Casey Donovan and Troy Cassar Daley.
Join in the festivities and show your support by switching onto SBS4 on 12 December 2012.
