Recently released figures reveal that Pay TV is making inroads into free to air TV audiences. More and more people are agreeing to the highest Pay TV rates in the world - to escape the frustrations that free to air inflicts on viewers.
Free to air planners simply do not get it. They engage in a crafty war to enhance ratings by deliberately running over time to discourage viewers from changing channels.
They figure that if the opposition's show has already started - viewers will stay where they are. This infringes on the viewers right to a choice - and stokes discontent with the free to air networks.
Then there is the complete lack of adherence with the published programme guides. The major networks delete shows and substitute others on a whim - with disdain for the wishes of the viewers.
Another source of friction is the increased number of TV advertisements creeping into each hours viewing. That is sheer greed on the part of free to air channels.
More advertisements equate to more dollars in the network's bank account - and have you noticed the annoying habit of boosting volume to ear splitting level during commercials ?
This contempt for the viewer is not shared by either the ABC or SBS, but the arrogance of the three major networks will continue to erode viewer numbers and drive them into the arms of Pay TV.
The only good thing is that the arrival of digital mode may create more competition with new channels entering the free to air offerings.
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