Digital radio coverage issue

Docklands has been identified as a digital radio black-spot and research is underway into the best way to fix it.

Melbourne’s digital signal comes from Mt Dandenong and is not strong enough to negotiate Docklands’ unique built form.

The radio industry is currently investigating the suitability of an on-channel repeater located in the CBD to improve reception in Docklands and other inner city areas.

A spokesperson for Commercial Radio Australia said an on-channel repeater would improve reception but before deciding to invest in one, the industry needed to be satisfied that it would not interfere with television reception.

Docklands is known to have poor television reception, mobile phone coverage and analogue radio reception.

On-channel repeaters cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, a cost which would be borne by the radio industry.