TVNZ has today announced major Australian contracts worth up to $250 million over five years.
The first contract, with NTL Australia, is for the operation and ongoing maintenance of broadcasting sites for ABC and
SBS television and radio services throughout Australia. These are now owned by NTL Australia. A second contract covers
design and engineering services for upgrades, replacements and new work.
Earlier in the year TVNZ, through its subsidiary TVNZ (Australia), was a member of a consortium seeking to purchase the
National Transmission Agency of Australia from its then owner, the Australian Government.
Although that bid was not accepted, TVNZ (A) has subsequently been successful in negotiating expanded contracts worth up
to $250m over five years with the new owners, NTL Australia. As a result TVNZ (Australia) will be expanding its current
operations and maintenance activities from just three regions (Queensland, South Australia and Northern Territory) to
all states throughout Australia.
TVNZ Chief Executive, Rick Ellis, says these contracts will under-pin TVNZ Australia’s business well into the new
millennium and expand its presence to over ten offices throughout the country.
“In addition these agreements will enable TVNZ to play a key role in the introduction of new digital broadcasting
services due to be established throughout Australia commencing in January 2001.”
“This is a tremendously exciting development for TVNZ’s operations in Australia, recognising, as it does, the
international expertise we have to offer,” says Mr Ellis.
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